Supporting the motion, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) stated that the decision would serve as a deterrent to public officials engaging in misconduct.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Senate has approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request to dismiss three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Sokoto, Abia, and Adamawa states.
The affected officials—Ike Uzochukwu (Abia), Hudu Yunusa-Ari (Adamawa), and Nura Ali (Sokoto)—were earlier suspended by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2023 over allegations of electoral malpractice and irregularities during the general elections.
During Wednesday’s plenary session, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) moved a motion to approve their dismissal, citing Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as the legal basis for their removal.
Supporting the motion, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) stated that the decision would serve as a deterrent to public officials engaging in misconduct.
“This administration has promised to fight corruption. The removal of these officials reinforces that commitment and will deter others from engaging in malpractice,” Moro said.
Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) added that the motion had the backing of a two-thirds majority, with 91 senators present. He emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional provisions to protect the integrity of public office.
Following a voice vote, Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared the motion adopted, sealing the RECs’ dismissal.
Calls for Stronger Vetting Process
Meanwhile, election monitoring group Yiaga Africa has called for a more thorough vetting process for INEC appointments.
Yiaga Africa’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, urged the Senate to review its confirmation procedures to ensure that only qualified and non-partisan individuals are appointed.
“These cases highlight the need for competence and integrity in INEC appointments. Future nominees must meet constitutional requirements and demonstrate unquestionable professionalism,” Itodo stated in Abuja on Wednesday.
He further urged President Tinubu to ensure that future INEC appointments prioritize expertise and non-partisanship to enhance the electoral body’s effectiveness.
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