President Bola Ahmed Tinubu faces a critical and delicate decision: who will replace Professor Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct the 2027 general elections?
In a strongly worded column, Suleiman A. Suleiman argues that Amupitan’s position has become morally and politically untenable due to mounting allegations of partisanship, public distrust, and a series of scandals that have eroded confidence in the electoral umpire.
He insists that Amupitan must go, as continuing with him risks fatally damaging the legitimacy of the 2027 polls even before they begin.
The columnist draws a vivid analogy: when the referee in a World Cup final is injured mid-game, FIFA would never replace him with a novice. Similarly, Nigeria cannot afford an inexperienced INEC chairman at this sensitive stage, with continuous voter registration already underway, party primaries just weeks away, and the presidential election scheduled for January 2027.
Suleiman recommends two individuals with proven track records and deep institutional knowledge: former INEC Chairman Professor Attahiru Jega or his successor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. He suggests a short-term appointment of two or three years to “steady the ship” through the 2027 elections and beyond.
The column warns that a poorly handled transition could roll Nigerian elections back to the chaotic 2007 era and leave President Tinubu with a tainted legacy, regardless of the election outcome. He urges Tinubu to prioritise national interest and the integrity of democracy over political convenience.
The piece reflects growing public anxiety over the credibility of the electoral process as the 2027 polls approach.
Northern Nigeria Hub
