INEC proposes sweeping reforms, including e-voting and ending presidential control over REC appointments.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is pushing for major electoral reforms before the 2027 general elections, including stripping the President of power to appoint Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs). Prof. Mohammad Kuna, Special Adviser to INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this at a National Assembly retreat in Lagos, proposing that INEC instead appoint “State Directors of Elections” to enhance transparency. The commission also wants to replace Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) with downloadable e-cards and amend constitutional provisions to centralize control over state-level appointments.
Kuna emphasized that the changes would curb political interference, stating: “The proposal is essential to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency.” Currently, RECs oversee elections under the President’s appointment, a system critics say undermines INEC’s independence. The reforms aim to rebuild trust in Nigeria’s electoral process after past controversies.
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