Senate confirms five new INEC RECs

The senate has confirmed the appointment of five resident electoral commissioners (RECs) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The confirmation followed the adoption of a report by the senate committee on INEC during plenary on Wednesday.

The confirmed appointees are Umar Yusuf Garba, Sa’ad Umar Idris, Chukwuemeka Obeziako, Umar Mukhtar, and Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem.

The appointments were made in accordance with section 154(1) of the 1999 constitution (as amended).

The committee, chaired by Sharafadeen Alli, senator representing Oyo south, said the nominees met the requirements for the positions.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended senators and the committee on INEC for the expeditious handling of the confirmation process.

He also praised President Bola Tinubu for submitting a “high-quality” list of nominees.

“Let me thank my colleagues, particularly the committee on INEC and electoral matters, for a job well done. I congratulate all the newly confirmed electoral commissioners,” Akpabio said.

“I wish them success as they take on the responsibilities of INEC, and urge them to act fairly and equitably to promote democracy and ensure justice for all.

“These are square pegs in square holes. I pray Almighty God grants them the wisdom to do justice — not only to politicians, but also to the Nigerian voter — so that every vote will count and no one will be shortchanged. I congratulate them and wish them well.”

The newly confirmed RECs are expected to serve a five-year term each.

President Bola Tinubu had nominated the new RECs in a letter sent to the senate on March 18.

“In compliance with the provision of section 154(1) of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), I am pleased to forward for confirmation by the senate, the appointment of the following five (5) nominees as Resident Electoral Commissioners in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),” the letter reads.

“The distinguished senate is invited to note that this letter which supersedes my earlier one referenced pres134/2 dated 12th day of March is occasioned by my consideration and approval of the commissioner from Borno state for reappointed for a second term.”