‘It reinforces need for electoral accountability’ — PACCA commends sack of suspended INEC Recs

By Aisha Uthman

The Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa (PAACA), a civil society organisation (CSO), has commended President Bola Tinubu for requesting the senate to terminate the appointments of the suspended resident electoral commissioners (RECs) of Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states.

In a statement issued on Friday, Ezenwa Nwagwu, executive director of PAACA, said the action aligns with the constitutional oversight process, noting that it reinforces the need for accountability within Nigeria’s electoral system.

“It also aligns with PAACA’s campaign for electoral integrity and accountability, which seeks to promote transparency, fairness, and responsibility in Nigeria’s electoral processes,” the statement reads.

“It is important to recall that the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had, as far back as March 2023, suspended these officials in response to their actions, which compromised the neutrality and integrity of the commission.

“The Adamawa REC, Barrister Hudu Yunusa-Ari, unlawfully usurped the Returning Officer’s role during the Adamawa State governorship election, falsely declaring results.

“The Sokoto REC, Dr. Nura Ali, and the Abia REC, Mr. Ike Uzochukwu were also suspended for dereliction of duty, with the Sokoto REC currently facing prosecution for bribery and corruption related to the 2023 elections.

“PAACA also commended the INEC for its successful prosecution of Professor Ignatius Uduk, who was recently sentenced to three years in prison by a High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom tsate for electoral fraud during the 2019 general election.

“This landmark conviction demonstrates INEC’s commitment to combating electoral malfeasance and ensuring accountability among its personnel.

“PAACA commends these decisive actions by INEC which demonstrates its commitment to accountability and its willingness to take internal measures to address misconduct within its ranks.”

The CSO said political parties and security agencies should emulate INEC which has shown that it can hold its own personnel accountable for their actions.

“This is a significant step towards restoring public trust in the electoral process,” the organisation said.

“Political parties and security agencies must take concrete steps to hold their personnel accountable for any actions that compromise the electoral process.

“This includes establishing robust mechanisms for investigating and disciplining errant personnel, which is essential for rebuilding public trust in the electoral system.

“The decision of President Bola Tinubu to formally request the senate to terminate the appointments of the three RECS points to the fact that while some Nigerians argue about INEC’s regulatory powers, it is imperative to recognise the constitutional framework within which the commission operates.

“It is essential to remember that the suspension of these officials for over a year highlights the complex process required for their removal, which necessitates the combined action of the president and the national assembly.

“During this period, these individuals continued to receive full salaries, emphasizing the need for oversight institutions to act decisively in the public interest.

“As we move forward, it is crucial that the replacements for the dismissed RECs are individuals who are impartial and free from partisan interests.

“The credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process depends on having neutral and competent officials at the helm of election management.

“We call on the Senate to exercise due diligence in the confirmation process, ensuring that only individuals of unquestionable integrity are entrusted with these critical positions.

“Ultimately, the effectiveness of our electoral process depends on the integrity and accountability of our institutions.

“We urge all oversight institutions, including the national assembly and the judiciary, to perform their duties with accountability, conscious of posterity and the fear of God.”