As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, discussions have intensified around the appointment of a new Chairman for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Current INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who has served two terms, is set to complete his tenure in November 2025.
While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has yet to take direct action, political strategists within and outside Aso Rock have already begun maneuvering to influence the selection of Yakubu’s successor. This process is expected to be a key determinant of the credibility of the 2027 elections.
Political Influences Behind the Selection Process
Sources indicate that a former South-South governor, a veteran of Nigeria’s 1999 political class, is playing a leading role in the effort to install a politically loyal candidate. Concerns have been raised that the next INEC chairman could be someone more responsive to political interests than electoral integrity, potentially undermining public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.
Nigeria’s electoral body has already faced intense criticism following the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-season elections. Allegations of irregularities and technical failures have fueled skepticism about the fairness of the electoral process. Many observers argue that choosing an impartial INEC chairman is the first step toward restoring public confidence.
Possible Candidates and Their Controversial Records
Though no official shortlist has been released, sources say that former National Commissioners and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) are being considered for the role. However, many of these individuals have histories of political alignment and questionable decision-making, raising doubts about their ability to conduct free and fair elections.
A key concern is whether the appointment process will prioritize credibility over political loyalty. Some analysts warn that a compromised INEC chairman could lead to another disputed election, deepening Nigeria’s electoral crisis.
Historical Parallels: Buhari’s Controversial INEC Appointment in 2015
The ongoing debate over Yakubu’s replacement draws comparisons to a controversial episode in 2015, when former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Amina Bala Zakari as acting INEC chairman.
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Zakari, who was believed to be a relative of Buhari, was appointed outside the established transition process, overriding the seniority-based handover plan put in place by outgoing INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega.
The decision sparked national outrage, forcing Buhari to reconsider his choice. In October 2015, he appointed Professor Mahmood Yakubu as the substantive INEC chairman, but Yakubu’s leadership later faced intense scrutiny during the 2019 and 2023 elections, both of which were marred by allegations of electoral fraud and irregularities.
Tinubu’s Approach: A Test for Electoral Reform
With the 2027 elections approaching, the question remains: Will Tinubu prioritize credibility or political influence in the INEC appointment?
A senior Aso Rock official insists that the President understands the importance of a transparent electoral process.
According to the insider, Tinubu’s recent directive to involve NYSC members in the upcoming national census reflects his broader push for institutional credibility.
“It’s not just about cost-saving; it’s about ensuring a credible process. The same principle applies to the appointment of the next INEC chairman. The President wants a transparent and credible selection to help restore Nigerians’ confidence in INEC,” the official stated.
The Road Ahead: What to Expect
As the search for a new INEC chairman unfolds, key issues to watch include:
- Will the appointment process be transparent and independent?
- Will the new chairman be a technocrat or a politically connected figure?
- How will opposition parties and civil society groups respond to the selection?
- What role will international observers play in monitoring the transition?
The credibility of the 2027 elections depends largely on who takes over as INEC chairman. For now, Nigerians are watching closely, waiting to see whether the next appointment will strengthen democracy or deepen political divisions.
