The Traffic

Tinubu Moves to Reshape INEC:Nominates Five New Electoral Chiefs for Senate Approval

By Achimi Muktar

In a fresh push to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent the names of five nominees to the Senate for confirmation as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The nominees, whose confirmation could shape the future of Nigeria’s elections, include:

Umar Yusuf Garba (Kano State)

Saad Umar (Bauchi State)

Chukwuemeka Ukomba (Anambra State)

Umar Muhktar (Borno State, reappointed)

Johnson Alalibo Siniken (Bayelsa State)

Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Tinubu’s letter of request during plenary yesterday, setting the stage for what could be a highly scrutinized confirmation process. The nominations have now been forwarded to the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, which has one week to screen the candidates and submit its report.

A Strategic Move?

The appointment of new RECs is a crucial step in Tinubu’s administration as Nigeria prepares for upcoming elections. With electoral integrity constantly under the spotlight, the selection of these officials will play a significant role in determining public confidence in INEC’s ability to conduct free and fair elections.

Political analysts suggest that the nominations could either reinforce trust in the electoral system or spark fresh controversy, depending on the perceived independence and credibility of the candidates.

What’s Next?

As the Senate begins screening the nominees, all eyes will be on lawmakers to ensure a transparent vetting process. Will these new RECs uphold Nigeria’s democratic principles—or fuel concerns about electoral manipulation?

One thing is clear: Tinubu’s picks for INEC could redefine Nigeria’s electoral landscape for years to come.