Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, swore in nine new Resident Electoral Commissioners on Tuesday.
On November 1, 2023, the Senate approved the appointment of seven of President Bola Tinubu’s candidates as RECs of the Commission.
Tinubu’s plea for confirmation of the nomination of the RECs for INEC was granted in compliance with Section 154(1) of the Constitution.
Yakubu informed the nine new RECs at the INEC headquarters in Abuja that conducting elections was not only a big burden but also a sacred obligation, encouraging them to be guided by the electoral legislative framework, the code of conduct for RECs, and good conscience.
“The conduct of elections is not only a huge responsibility, but also a sacred duty,” he remarked. As RECs, you will be the Commission’s representatives in the several states where you will be assigned soon.
“I implore you not to engage in a pointless debate that adds nothing to your work.” At the same time, you must not be immune to legitimate criticism. You must continue the Commission’s history of holding regular consultations with key stakeholders.
“You must always be firm in ensuring equity and transparency for all.” Let me state right now that you must always be led by the election legal framework, the REC code of conduct, and your good conscience.
Mahmood went on to say that this was the first time multiple INEC career officers had been appointed as RECs, and he urged them to go to work right now.
“Four of the nine new RECs were career officers of the Commission who rose to the rank of Director.” They have participated in elections and electoral activities on the ground as well as at the headquarters.
on behalf of any REC.”
The INEC chairman further stated that the 10th REC-designate would be sworn in next month, when the tenure of the REC representing Akwa Ibom State, who is now deployed to Delta State, expires.
“Today, nine of the ten RECs screened and confirmed by the National Assembly were sworn in at this ceremony,” he stated.
“The tenth REC-designate will be sworn in next month, when the term of the REC representing Akwa Ibom State, who is currently deployed to Delta State, expires.” Because of the appointing authority’s proactive decision, there will be no extended waiting period until the position is filled. Similarly, I must caution you to understand and use your delegated duties and responsibilities. Our state offices are an integral component of the Commission, and we will not hesitate to address acts of defiance, indiscretion, or transgression.
“Let me therefore take this opportunity to commend the outgoing REC in Delta State, Reverend Dr Monday Udo Tom, for his selfless and dedicated service to the commission and the nation.” The same gratitude is extended to all the other RECs whose terms concluded after meritorious service.”
“Their backgrounds ranged from electoral operations to election and party monitoring to electoral litigation.” Several INEC career officers have been appointed as RECs for the first time. You are not new to election administration. For you, there is no learning curve.
Read Also: Customs starts investigation of officer demanding bribe in viral video
“As a result, there can be no excuses for failing to get off to a good start and making a significant difference in the quality and transparency of elections.” The other five RECs were sworn in today and have a variety of public service experience at both the national and state levels. We will hold you to the same standards as the Commission’s career officers.”
The new RECs have been deployed as follows: Abubakar Dambo Sarkin Pawa, Kebbi; Abubakar Ma’aji Ahmed, Borno; Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, Edo State; Ehimeakhe Shaka Isah, Akwa Ibom; Aminu Idris, Kaduna; Mohammed Sadiq Abubakar, Kwara; Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola, Ondo; Olubunmi Omoseyindemi, Ekiti; and Shehu Wahab, Nasarawa.
Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola, speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in RECs, promised loyalty to their tasks while acknowledging their responsibilities as RECs in Nigeria.
Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola of Ekiti State served as the commission’s Director of Legal Services prior to her appointment.
Aminu Idris of Nasarawa state retired as the director of the Election and Political Parties Monitoring Department at INEC headquarters.
Before becoming a REC, Shehu Abdulwahab worked as the INEC’s administrative secretary in Benue State.
