The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to publicly disclose the details of the selection process for the next chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This demand comes as the tenure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the current INEC chairman, is set to end in November 2025 after completing two terms spanning 10 years.
In a letter dated September 27, 2025, and signed by SERAP's Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization urged full transparency in the appointment process. SERAP insists that Nigerians deserve to know the number and names of candidates vying for the INEC chairmanship and whether the constitutionally required consultation with the Council of State has taken place.
Highlighting the importance of an impartial and independent electoral commission, SERAP stressed that openness in the appointment process would boost public confidence in INEC's independence and promote citizens’ active participation in elections. The group also advised President Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of some Resident Electoral Commissioners alleged to be members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and instead nominate non-partisan individuals to maintain the commission's neutrality.
SERAP warned that secrecy in the selection process undermines INEC’s autonomy and Nigeria’s democratic integrity. The civil society organization emphasized that transparency would reduce the risk of conflicts of interest and ensure competent and fair appointment, essential for free and fair elections.
As President Tinubu prepares to name Yakubu's successor, the call for accountability and clarity in this critical process has resonated widely among Nigerians eager for credible electoral management.