Prominent human rights attorney, Femi Falana declares the nomination of political affiliates as Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) unconstitutional.

According to a report by The Guardian, Femi Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), criticized the recent appointment of four nominees as RECs by President Bola Tinubu, citing their affiliations with political parties. He emphasized the importance of an unbiased Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and warned against the commission’s composition of members loyal to the ruling party.

As the chairman of the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), Falana has voiced his concerns and is prepared to pursue legal channels if the Senate confirms these nominations, which he believes defy the constitution’s provisions.

He referenced Section 154(1) and Paragraph 14 of the Third Schedule of the Constitution, pointing out that a Resident Electoral Commissioner should be above forty years of age, possess unquestionable integrity, and remain non-partisan. Falana further stated that for elections to remain credible, individuals loyal to any registered political parties shouldn’t occupy positions as INEC Commissioners or Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Highlighting the affiliations of the nominated individuals, Falana revealed that four have ties with the All Progressive Congress (APC), and another recently served as a Special Adviser to an ex-governor from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He asserted, “The 2027 general elections must epitomize transparency. As such, allowing INEC to be influenced by members and allies of the dominant political entities jeopardizes the nation’s electoral integrity.”

Falana concluded by warning of potential legal action at the Federal High Court should the Senate proceed with the confirmation of these nominees in light of the constitutional guidelines.