The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to make public the process for appointing the next chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The current INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, will leave office in November 2025 after completing his 10-year, two-term tenure. The president must soon name his successor, with Senate approval.
In a letter dated September 27, 2025, SERAP said the process should not be secret. The group asked Tinubu to:Reveal the names and number of candidates being considered confirm if the Council of State will be consulted, as required by the Constitution.
Replace three Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) who are allegedly members of the ruling APC with non-partisan individuals.
SERAP said a transparent and open process would build public trust in INEC’s independence and fairness. It argued that secrecy could damage confidence in elections and weaken democracy.
The group reminded Tinubu that the Constitution requires consultation with the Council of State and that only non-partisan persons should hold INEC positions.
It also pointed out that Nigeria’s international obligations demand free and fair elections managed by an impartial body.
SERAP warned that without an independent INEC, the rights of Nigerians to choose their leaders would remain in doubt.
It gave Tinubu seven days to act, saying it may take legal action if the government fails to respond.