By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – A Civil Society Organization, CSO, and election observer, Yiaga Africa, Wednesday, hailed President Bola Tinubu over request to the Senate to sack suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners, RECs, for Adamawa, Abia and Sokoto states based on alleged gross misconduct.

The commendation for Tinubu’s move was contained in a statement signed by the Executive Director, Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, where it pointed out that the request follows the suspension of the RECs by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in March 2023, in direct response to their involvement in actions that compromised the neutrality and integrity of INEC.

Itodo said: “Yiaga Africa welcomes President Tinubu’s request to the Nigerian Senate for the removal of the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for Adamawa, Abia and Sokoto states based on gross misconduct.

“The request follows the suspension of the RECs by INEC in March 2023, in direct response to their involvement in actions that compromised the neutrality and integrity of INEC.

“The Adamawa REC, Barrister Hudu Yunusa-Ari, unlawfully usurped the Returning Officer’s role during the Adamawa State governorship election, declaring false results.

“Meanwhile, the Sokoto REC, Dr. Nura Ali, and the Abia REC, Mr. Ike Uzochukwu, were suspended for dereliction of duty. Notably, the Sokoto REC is currently under prosecution by the Federal Government for alleged bribery and corruption related to the 2023 elections.

“Yiaga Africa calls on the Nigerian Senate to expeditiously approve the President’s request to remove these RECs to uphold accountability and reinforce trust in the electoral process. These cases highlight the critical importance of appointing competent and capable individuals to INEC positions.

“Future appointments must prioritize the qualifications and expertise of nominees to ensure INEC’s effectiveness.

“We also urge the President to ensure that future INEC appointments strictly adhere to the constitutional requirements of non-partisanship and unquestionable integrity.

“Furthermore, the Senate is encouraged to review its confirmation procedure to ensure due diligence in vetting candidates for INEC positions.”