Northern Group Dismisses Fears Over Yakubu’s Ambassadorial Nomination, Says INEC’s Independence Remains Intact

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has dismissed concerns that the ambassadorial nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, could compromise the commission’s independence and impartiality.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the group described the ongoing public debate as “misguided and reckless,” insisting that INEC’s autonomy is protected by law, not by the personal career choices of its officials.

Shettima noted that INEC’s independence is anchored on strong legal and institutional frameworks that prevent undue interference, adding that suggestions that Yakubu’s post-service appointment could taint the commission’s neutrality were unfounded.

“The integrity of INEC does not hinge on the actions of one individual. It is secured by robust structural safeguards and the active engagement of all stakeholders,” the statement read.

The NSCI emphasized that INEC remains the most scrutinized public institution in Nigeria, with its activities monitored by political parties, civil society organizations, and the media. According to the group, this level of oversight ensures that no single individual, including the chairman, can compromise the commission’s credibility.

Highlighting reforms since 2010, the organization said the electoral body has built a resilient system that continues to improve over time. It added that the 2023 general elections—described as historic for opposition parties—were a testament to the commission’s evolving strength and institutional capacity rather than the influence of any one official.

The group also defended Professor Yakubu’s record in public service, noting that he had served under four presidents with differing political ideologies—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—without partisan controversy.

Shettima further recalled Yakubu’s achievements as head of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, where he was credited with helping to transform Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape. His tenure at INEC, he said, had similarly been marked by technological innovation and improved transparency.

The NSCI urged stakeholders to prioritize strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions rather than amplifying fears over individual appointments, stressing that democracy thrives on strong systems, not personalities.

“We call on political parties, civil society, and the media to reject narratives that undermine INEC and to recommit to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law,” the statement added.

The group reaffirmed its support for Yakubu’s nomination and called for collective efforts to maintain the integrity of the country’s electoral framework.