President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate’s approval to dismiss the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for Sokoto, Adamawa, and Abia states.
The request, which was submitted to the Senate earlier this week, comes in the wake of ongoing discussions about electoral integrity and the need for a transparent electoral process in Nigeria.
The RECs in question had been suspended amid allegations of misconduct and impropriety during the recent elections, raising concerns about their capacity to oversee future electoral activities.
In his letter to the Senate, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of ensuring that Nigeria’s electoral body is staffed by individuals who uphold the highest standards of accountability and professionalism.
“The integrity of our electoral process is paramount,” Tinubu stated.
“It is essential that we appoint individuals who are not only competent but also committed to maintaining the trust of the Nigerian people.”
According to the letter, read by Senator Akpabio during a plenary session on Wednesday, President Tinubu explained that the RECs were suspended by INEC before he assumed office.
The letter read: “The Senate is invited to note that the three resident electoral commissioners have been suspended for misconduct since March 2022 before the advent of the current administration.
“While I trust that the Senate will consider this request expeditiously, please accept distinguished senators and distinguished senate president, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
Some senators have voiced their support for the move, believing it will enhance the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Others, however, have raised concerns about the potential political implications and the need for a thorough vetting process for any new appointees.
The decision to seek the dismissal of the RECs is believed to highlight the Tinubu administration’s commitment to addressing electoral reforms and restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic processes.