In a move aimed at boosting Nigeria’s democratic infrastructure, President Bola Tinubu on Monday, May 12, 2025, formally administered the oath of office to newly appointed national commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as well as fresh board members of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). The swearing-in ceremony took place ahead of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The two new INEC commissioners include Abdulrazak Tukur, who will represent the North-West geopolitical zone, and Sunday Aja, appointed to represent the South-East zone. Their inclusion brings the electoral body closer to achieving full operational capacity ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.
Code of Conduct Bureau Board Also Reconstituted
Alongside the INEC commissioners, President Tinubu also swore in new members of the Code of Conduct Bureau. Ikpeme Ndem from Cross River State and Buba Nyaure from Taraba State were formally inducted as CCB board members, marking a strategic step to reinforce public service ethics and accountability mechanisms within the federal government.
The Code of Conduct Bureau plays a vital role in Nigeria’s anti-corruption architecture by monitoring the conduct of public officials and ensuring compliance with ethical standards. Their board reconstitution is seen as part of broader governance reforms being pursued under the Tinubu administration.
INEC Chairman Hails Appointment as Vital for Institutional Stability
Following the swearing-in, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu addressed the media, describing the latest appointments as critical for restoring the commission’s functionality after several vacancies hampered operations. He emphasized that the newly filled positions would allow INEC to operate at near-full strength, especially as preparations begin for future elections across the country.
“With these appointments, we now have almost the full complement of commissioners. This is a crucial step toward restoring our full operational capability,” Yakubu stated.
Collaboration with National Assembly on Electoral Reform Intensifies
In addition to discussing the significance of the new appointments, Yakubu underscored INEC’s ongoing collaboration with the National Assembly to introduce meaningful electoral reforms. He noted that the commission is working proactively with lawmakers to enhance the transparency, integrity, and efficiency of Nigeria’s election process.
“We are actively working with the National Assembly on electoral reforms that will improve the electoral process and deepen democracy in Nigeria,” he affirmed.
Although details of the proposed reforms were not specified, stakeholders have continued to call for changes in areas such as electronic voting, voter registration, result transmission, and campaign financing transparency. These areas remain pivotal to increasing public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral outcomes.
Yakubu Dismisses Rumours of Removal
Responding to swirling speculation about his possible removal from office, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu dismissed the claims as baseless. He firmly reiterated that he remains in office in full accordance with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act.
“I remain the Chairman of INEC in accordance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act. Any speculation about my removal is unfounded and unnecessary,” Yakubu clarified.
The rumours, which circulated widely on social media and some news platforms, had sparked concerns about possible political interference in the operations of the electoral commission. Yakubu’s public dismissal of these rumours comes at a time when electoral independence and integrity are under increased scrutiny from civil society, the opposition, and international observers.
Broader Implications for Democratic Governance
The latest appointments and reaffirmation of INEC leadership signal the Tinubu administration’s intent to reinforce Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of future elections. By addressing critical vacancies in key electoral and oversight bodies, the presidency aims to project stability, responsiveness, and preparedness.
Observers see this move as part of a broader push to align government operations with public expectations for transparency, accountability, and reform. With electoral reform now firmly on the legislative agenda, there is growing anticipation that new legal frameworks could soon emerge to address longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s voting and political processes.
Conclusion
President Tinubu’s swearing-in of new INEC commissioners and CCB board members represents a deliberate step toward enhancing institutional readiness and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework. As INEC regains operational stability and collaborates with lawmakers on electoral reforms, attention will remain focused on the commission’s ability to implement changes that restore trust in the ballot box. Meanwhile, Mahmood Yakubu’s dismissal of removal rumours provides clarity on leadership continuity within the electoral commission, even as political and civic stakeholders watch closely for reforms that could shape the nation’s democratic future.
