Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is advocating for a constitutional amendment that would give it the authority to directly appoint officials in charge of elections at the state level.
Gatekeepers News reports that it was presented during a retreat involving INEC officials and members of the National Assembly’s joint committee on electoral matters.
Speaking at the event, Mohammad Kuna, special adviser to Mahmood Yakubu, INEC chairman, highlighted the need for reforms to the nation’s electoral legal framework.
Kuna said the commission should be given the power to appoint state directors of elections (SDEs) who would carry out the same functions currently handled by Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), who are appointed by the President.
INEC recommended changes to 1999 Constitution, specifically Section 14(3), Paragraph F of Third Schedule, and Section 6(3) of Electoral Act 2022.
The amendment aims to confer upon the commission the authority to appoint and discipline heads of state and federal capital territory (FCT) offices who would serve as state directors of elections.
The commission said, “Amend Section 14 (3) Paragraph F of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution to Confer the Power of Appointing and Disciplining Heads of State and FCT Offices.”
“Amend Section 6 (3) of EA 2022 to confer the power of appointing heads of State and FCT
Offices on the Commission.”
“Developments in recent past and especially during and in the aftermath of the 2023 general election suggests the need for the commission to have greater powers to make appointments to the heads of state and FCT offices.”
INEC noted that the proposed changes are part of a broader effort to streamline electoral processes and ensure greater integrity and efficiency in future elections.
