INEC appointment under scrutiny: FENRAD raises concerns over 2027 election credibility, seeks transparency

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to prioritize transparency and accountability in the upcoming appointment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, warning that the credibility of future elections hangs in the balance.

According to the group Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna, despite the deployment of technological tools such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal—both introduced to promote transparency—the 2023 elections fell short of public expectations.

FENRAD noted with concern the widespread logistical failures, technical glitches, and delayed result uploads that undermined the integrity of the process and cast doubt on INEC’s ability to deliver a free, fair, and credible election.

“The credibility of any democratic process rests squarely on the impartiality and integrity of its electoral body. What we witnessed in 2023 was a significant departure from this ideal,” Executive Director of FENRAD.

“Moving forward, the appointment of the next INEC Chairman must not follow the same opaque and politically-driven template that has contributed to public distrust.”

FENRAD emphasized that the current system, which allows the President to unilaterally nominate the INEC Chair, creates a perception of bias—particularly when the appointing authority is an interested party in future elections.

FENRAD recommended the establishment of an independent, multi-stakeholder nomination committee comprising civil society, legal experts, electoral reform advocates, and non-partisan institutions.

“Public scrutiny and vetting of nominees to ensure accountability and build public trust. Adoption of clear criteria for eligibility based on experience, neutrality, and demonstrated commitment to democratic values.

“The 2023 general elections exposed systemic weaknesses that must not be repeated. FENRAD believes that a transparent and credible appointment process for the new INEC Chairman is the first step toward restoring electoral integrity in Nigeria.

“We must learn from our past. The road to credible elections in 2027 begins now—with how we appoint those entrusted to safeguard our democracy,” FENRAD stressed.