INEC swears in 9 news RECs

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, swore in nine new Resident Electoral Commissioners on Tuesday.

On November 1, 2023, the Senate approved the appointment of seven of President Bola Tinubu’s nominees to the Commission as RECs.

Tinubu requested approval of the nomination of the RECs for INEC in compliance with Section 154(1) of the Constitution.

Yakubu told the nine new RECs at the INEC headquarters in Abuja that conducting elections was not only a big burden but also a sacred obligation, encouraging them to be led by the electoral legislative framework, the REC code of conduct, and good conscience.
“Conducting elections is not only a huge responsibility, but also a sacred duty,” he remarked. As RECs, you will be the Commission’s representatives in the several states where you will be sent shortly.

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“I implore you not to get involved in a pointless debate that adds nothing to your work.” At the same time, you must not be impervious to valid criticism. You must continue the Commission’s practice of regular discussions with key stakeholders.

“You must always be firm in ensuring fairness and transparency to all.” Let me state unequivocally that you must always be led by the election legal framework, the REC code of conduct, and your good conscience.

Mahmood went on to say that this was the first time multiple INEC career officers had been selected as RECs, and he urged them to get started right away.

“Four of the nine new RECs are career officers of the Commission who have advanced to the rank of Director.” They have been involved in elections and electoral activities both in the field and at the headquarters.

on the part of any REC.”

The INEC chairman further stated that the 10th REC-designate would be sworn in next month, following the expiration of the mandate of the REC representing Akwa Ibom State, who is now deployed to Delta State.

“Today, nine out of the ten RECs screened and confirmed by the National Assembly were sworn in at this ceremony,” he stated.

“The tenth REC-designate will be sworn in next month, following the expiration of the tenure of the REC representing Akwa Ibom State, who is currently deployed to Delta State.” Because of the proactive decision made by the appointing authority, there will be no extended waiting period until the vacancy is filled.Similarly, I must caution you to recognize and work within the boundaries of your authorized authorities and obligations. Our state offices are an integral component of the Commission, and we will not hesitate to deal with acts of defiance, indiscretion, or transgression.

“Let me therefore take this opportunity to thank the outgoing REC in Delta State, Reverend Dr Monday Udo Tom, for his selfless and dedicated service to the commission and the nation.” The same gratitude is extended to all the other RECs whose tenure ended after honorable service.”
“Their backgrounds included electoral operations, election and party monitoring, and electoral litigation.” This is the first time that multiple INEC career officers have been appointed as RECs. You’re not new to election administration. There is no learning curve for you.

“As a result, there are no excuses for failing to get off to a good start and making a significant difference in the quality and transparency of elections.” The other five RECs were sworn in today and have diverse experience in public service at both the national and state levels. We will hold you to the same standard as the Commission’s career officers.”

The new RECs have been deployed as follows: Abubakar Dambo Sarkin Pawa, Kebbi; Abubakar Ma’aji Ahmed, Borno; Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, Edo State; Ehimeakhe Shaka Isah, Akwa Ibom; Aminu Idris, Kaduna; Mohammed Sadiq Abubakar, Kwara; Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola, Ondo; Olubunmi Omoseyindemi, Ekiti; and Shehu Wahab, Nasarawa.

Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola, who addressed on behalf of the newly sworn-in RECs, committed to stay true to their duties while acknowledging their responsibilities as RECs in Nigeria.

Barr. Oluwatoyin Babalola of Ekiti State was the Director of Legal Services at the commission’s headquarters prior to her appointment.

Aminu Idris of Nasarawa state retired as the director of the Election and Political Parties Monitoring Department at the INEC headquarters.

Shehu Abdulwahab was the INEC’s administrative secretary in Benue State before being named a REC.