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

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3 years ago

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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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ADC appeals judgment that sacked David Mark

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3 days ago

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November 7, 2026

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The David Mark-led faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the Federal High Court judgement that removed its leadership.

The opposition party also disclosed that it had filed an application seeking a stay of execution of the judgement pending the hearing and determination of its appeal.

The party made this known in a statement on Friday, November 6, adding that it had formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the legal steps taken,

The appeal is against the judgement delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja on November 5, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1619/2025, involving Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe and the ADC.

The party urged INEC to refrain from taking any further action on the matter until the Court of Appeal has considered the case.

It argued that the application for a stay of execution was yet to be decided and that the electoral commission should not take any step that could affect the outcome of the appeal.

According to the ADC, it expects INEC to respect the ongoing legal process and allow the appellate court to hear the matter before making any decision connected to the judgement.

The statement partly read, “The ADC is exercising its lawful right to appeal. The judgement is now being challenged before a higher court, and the legal process must be allowed to run its course.

“We expect INEC to uphold the law and take full account of the pending proceedings before making any consequential decisions.”

The party also urged its members and supporters to remain calm, insisting that the court judgement would not stop its political activities.

It said its campaigns would continue while it explored all available legal options to defend its position.

 

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TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Anthony Emmanuel Ochele, Professional Barber, Haircut & Grooming Specialist

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5 days ago

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November 5, 2026

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Emmanuel Ochele is an experienced and dedicated professional barber with over 10 years of experience in hair cutting,styling and grooming. He specialises in low cuts, fades, skin fades, dreadlocks,twisting,beard trimming and hairline designs.

Having worked at Medax Executive Saloon, Ibadan (2013–2016) and subsequently established himself as a self-employed barber, he is committed to delivering quality services, maintaining high hygiene standards and ensuring customer satisfaction.

He is hardworking, creative, punctual and reliable, with excellent customer service and communication skills.

Contact Information:
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Address: sw7/265,nigerwest,ibadan,nigeria.

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Court sacks David Mark led Exco, nullifies Atiku’s candidature

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5 days ago

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November 5, 2026

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Senator David Mark, declaring the caretaker committee that oversaw the party’s affairs illegal and invalidating all decisions taken by the committee.

The judgment, delivered on Thursday by Justice Peter Lifu, also affects the presidential primary that produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the ADC’s flag bearer for the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, whose name had earlier been published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the party’s presidential candidate, had already selected former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as his running mate.

The ruling followed a suit instituted by Nafiu Bala Gombe, a former National Deputy Chairman (North-East) of the ADC, who challenged the process through which the David Mark-led leadership assumed control of the party.

Gombe argued that following the resignation of the party’s former National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu, he was constitutionally entitled to take over the leadership.

He consequently asked the court to invalidate all actions undertaken by the Mark-led leadership and restrain Senator Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola from presenting themselves as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.

The plaintiff maintained that their emergence violated the ADC constitution and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act.

In suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, the ADC, INEC, Senator David Mark, Aregbesola and Chief Ralph Nwosu were listed as defendants.

Justice Lifu upheld Gombe’s claims and granted the reliefs sought, effectively invalidating the authority of the caretaker committee and decisions taken under its leadership.

The verdict is expected to trigger fresh political uncertainty within the ADC, particularly over Atiku’s presidential ambition and the party’s preparations for the January 16, 2027 presidential election.

However, the party has vowed to challenge the judgment at the appellate court.

 

 

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