INEC and neutrality test

Recent controversies have emerged surrounding the redeployment of key personnel within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. Several notable individuals have been reassigned, sparking debate over transparency, political neutrality, and public confidence in the electoral body.

Mrs. Oluyemi Titilayo Adeyemi-Showunmi, formerly the Administrative Secretary of INEC's Lagos State office, has been promoted to the role of Director of Electoral Operations. This position, though not directly determining election results, is crucial for election planning, polling arrangements, deployment of materials, and personnel management.

Adeyemi-Showunmi's husband, Segun Showunmi, serves as a spokesman for the Tinubu/Shettima 2027 Presidential Campaign Council. Prof. Mustapha Aliu, brother of Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, has been nominated as an INEC commissioner. Isah Magaji Gummi, who previously headed the Electoral Operations Department, has been reassigned to the Voter Registry Department.

The Electoral Operations Department plays a pivotal role in election planning and implementation, coordinating polling arrangements and managing personnel. The redeployments have raised concerns over INEC's transparency, neutrality, and public trust. Civil society organizations and on social media have debated the implications of such appointments, questioning whether political influence could compromise the electoral process.

Former Director of Voter Education at INEC, Mr. Nick Dazang, expressed concerns about appointing someone closely related to a sitting governor who is contesting elections. He emphasized the importance of neutrality and impartiality in the role, suggesting that the officer should recuse herself to maintain public confidence. Similarly, Samson Itodo, Director-General of YIAGA Africa, warned that public confidence in the electoral process must be maintained, stating that appointing individuals with ties to politicians to critical positions raises legitimate questions about impartiality.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar also called for transparency and immediate action from INEC regarding the changes in the Electoral Operations Department.