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The Erosion of Democracy: Partisan Appointments in INEC and Senate’s Betrayal

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By Chidi Ekeh
In the annals of Nigeria’s democratic history, certain events stand out as defining moments, either bolstering our faith in democracy or causing us to question its very essence. The recent appointment and confirmation of card-carrying members and loyalists of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fall squarely into the latter category. In a nation where the integrity of elections is paramount, these appointments have struck a grievous blow to our democratic ideals. In this scathing op-ed, we will decry these appointments and condemn the Senate’s role in this betrayal of our democracy, demand accountability, and commend the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for its relentless pursuit of justice.
The Unholy Alliance
The appointment of APC members as RECs in INEC is not just a political maneuver; it is a blatant mockery of the principles that underpin our democracy. The very foundation of a democratic system is built on the notion of fairness, impartiality, and the strict separation of powers. These cardinal principles have been trampled upon with impunity, as loyalists of the ruling party are handed the keys to the electoral process, a process that should be impartial and beyond reproach.
The gravest sin committed in this debacle is the blatant disregard for the principle of neutrality. The INEC is supposed to be a non-partisan body, responsible for ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently. By appointing individuals with clear affiliations to the APC, President Tinubu has struck a blow at the very heart of this impartiality. These appointments transform the INEC into a partisan tool, undermining the confidence of the opposition parties and the Nigerian electorate.
Senate’s Complicity
One might assume that the Senate, as the custodian of democratic values, would serve as a check and balance against such blatant disregard for democratic norms. However, the Senate’s role in this travesty is nothing short of complicity. The very institution entrusted with the protection of our democracy has, in fact, betrayed the people they were elected to serve.
The Senate’s confirmation of these partisan appointments is a betrayal of the trust of the Nigerian people. Instead of questioning the nominees’ affiliations and holding them to the highest standards of neutrality, the Senate has chosen to rubber-stamp President Tinubu’s decisions, undermining their own mandate and the very essence of democracy.
The deafening silence of the Senate in the face of these appointments speaks volumes. It is a testament to their willingness to put party loyalty above their responsibility to the people. Rather than acting as a bulwark against the erosion of democracy, they have become willing accomplices in its demise.
*A Demand for Accountability*
In the face of this glaring assault on the principles of democracy, it is imperative that we demand accountability. The government must be held responsible for its actions, and the people must make it clear that such appointments will not be tolerated. Accountability is not a matter of political affiliation; it is a matter of safeguarding the very foundation of our nation.
We must demand that the government adhere to the constitutional and legal requirements for the appointment of RECs. The Nigerian Constitution and electoral laws clearly stipulate the qualifications and criteria for the appointment of RECs, and these must be upheld. Age, integrity, and non-partisanship are the cornerstones of a successful REC. We must insist that these criteria are not just words on paper but standards that must be met without compromise.
Praise for SERAP
In this hour of darkness for our democracy, it is heartening to see organizations like SERAP standing up for the principles of justice, accountability, and the rule of law. SERAP’s decision to sue the Tinubu administration and the Senate over the partisan appointments in INEC is a beacon of hope in a sea of despair. It demonstrates the power of civil society in holding the government accountable for its actions.
SERAP’s actions are a testament to the resilience of civil society and the unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy. They have taken a bold step in the pursuit of justice, and we must commend their dedication to ensuring that the right things are done.
 Qualities of a Resident Electoral Commissioner
To restore the credibility and integrity of INEC, we must first understand the qualities and qualifications that a REC should possess. The appointment of RECs is not a matter of political patronage; it is a matter of national importance. To be a successful REC, an individual must meet the following criteria:
Age: A REC must be at least 40 years old. This requirement is in place to ensure that appointees have the necessary experience and maturity to handle the responsibilities of the position.
Integrity: The individual appointed as a REC must be of unquestionable integrity. This means they should have a track record of ethical conduct and a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy.
Non-partisanship: Perhaps the most crucial qualification is non-partisanship. A REC should not be a member of any registered political party. This is to prevent any conflict of interest and to ensure that the individual can carry out their duties with impartiality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the appointment of APC members as RECs in INEC and the Senate’s confirmation of these appointments are dark days for Nigerian democracy. The erosion of the principles of fairness, impartiality, and neutrality in our electoral process is a threat to the very core of our nation.
We must demand accountability from our government and insist that they adhere to the constitutional and legal requirements for the appointment of RECs. The Nigerian people deserve an electoral commission that is beyond reproach, one that can conduct elections with integrity and transparency.
SERAP’s pursuit of justice is a glimmer of hope in these trying times. Their actions remind us that civil society can play a critical role in holding the government accountable and ensuring that the right things are done.
As we move forward, let us remember the qualities and qualifications that a REC should possess: age, integrity, and non-partisanship. These are not just words on paper; they are the standards that must be upheld to safeguard our democracy.
In the face of this assault on our democracy, we must be vengeful in our determination to restore the principles of fairness and impartiality. We must be angry at the betrayal of our trust by those who were meant to protect our democracy. Only then can we begin to rebuild the foundations of our nation and ensure that our democracy thrives.
Chidi Ekeh writes from Abuja
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Speaker, 14 other River State assembly members decamp to APC

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December 5, 2025

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15 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, have left the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Amaewhule disclosed the lawmakers’ decision during Friday’s plenary, attributing their defection to what he called a “clear division” within the PDP.

“Distinguished colleagues, very happily, let me announce that your Speaker has decided, and has indeed written to my ward chairman of my decision, to leave the PDP. APC is my new party,” Amaewhule said.

Amaewhule’s Deputy, Dumle Maol, is one of the 16 lawmakers that joined APC as well.

All the lawmakers, who have jumped ship, are core loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Chief Nyesom Wike.

 

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CBN rolls out new directives to track financial fraud

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December 5, 2025

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The Central Bank of Nigeria,has rolled out a new framework ito expedite handling of fraud accusations and refund victims.

Customers must report suspected fraudulent transactions within 72 hours under this draft guideline, and financial institutions have 16 working days to look into the matter and repay money.

The action comes in the wake of a dramatic increase in banking sector fraud.

According to data from the Financial Institutions Training Center, losses in the first quarter of 2025 increased to ₦3.29 billion, a startling 603 percent increase over the previous year. In the same time frame, reported cases also increased to 12,347.

The November 26, 2025, proposed regulations seek to improve bank accountability, expedite reimbursements, and boost prevention.

Director of the Financial Policy and Regulation Department Rita Sike signed the circular, which describes stricter regulations intended to prevent fraud before it occurs.

The apex bank’s ongoing fight against financial fraud has advanced with the adoption of this guidance. To enhance cooperation between operators, it established the Nigeria Electronic Fraud Forum in 2011.

It directed banks to establish specialized fraud bureaus four years later. By requiring BVN or NIN for account opening, it reinforced Know Your Customer checks in 2023.

 

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DSS arrests medical doctor treating wounded terrorists

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December 5, 2025

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Operatives of the Department of State Service have arrested a medical doctor treating wounded kidnappers inside the forest in different parts of Kwara State.

The suspect, whose name could not be ascertained at press time, was also involved in supplying drugs to kidnapping gangs operating in Kwara.

The DSS intercepted the medical doctor in the Jebba area after intelligence reports revealed that some couriers had been moving medical supplies from Sokoto to treat wounded bandits hiding in forests across the state.

A security official said many of the criminal groups have sustained gunshot injuries in recent encounters with forces.

The source said, “So, we are advising improved security measures in health facilities in thickly forested areas which the kidnappers may target.”

Confirming the development, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Kwara State, Rafiu Ajakaye, said the arrest was another significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat banditry.

Ajakaye noted that the state government will continue to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to shut down all channels aiding kidnapping activities.

 

 

 

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