The year 2027 marked a significant milestone for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria as they welcomed six new Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) and redeployed 11 officials to various states. The ceremony, led by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of INEC, was held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Among the newly sworn-in RECs were individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem and Mukhtar Umar Gajiram were reappointed for a second term, showcasing their dedication and expertise in electoral matters. The remaining appointees brought a blend of electoral knowledge and private sector skills to their roles.
In his address, Prof. Yakubu emphasized the critical role of RECs in upholding electoral integrity and engaging transparently with stakeholders. He reminded the commissioners of their duty to abide by the legal framework, maintain ethical standards, and ensure accountability in their actions. His words resonated powerfully as he stated,
“The conduct of elections is not only a huge responsibility but also a sacred duty.”
Highlighting the importance of experience and adherence to regulations, Prof. Yakubu urged all RECs to perform their duties diligently and ethically. He stressed that their responsibilities were full-time commitments that demanded unwavering dedication to serving the public interest.
Addressing the redeployment of officials, Prof. Yakubu clarified that such movements were part of routine administrative processes aimed at optimizing operational efficiency within INEC. He underlined the significance of maintaining stability while acknowledging that redeployments might occur based on evolving needs.
As he concluded his remarks, Prof. Yakubu reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transparency by announcing that details of all deployed RECs would be made available on official platforms for public awareness.
The swearing-in ceremony symbolized a new chapter for INEC—a chapter characterized by strengthened leadership, strategic deployments, and a steadfast focus on promoting democratic values across Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
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