EU calls for apolitical appointments of INEC chair, RECs

The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Samuela Isopi, has urged the National Assembly to review the country’s electoral laws to ensure that the appointments of the chairman and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are apolitical.

Isopi made the call in Abuja on Monday at the opening of a 2-day retreat organized for senior legislative aides to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu. She emphasized that such reforms would promote transparency and integrity in the country’s electoral processes.

The EU ambassador also expressed readiness to collaborate with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in critical areas aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic system.

“As the largest democracy in Africa, Nigeria plays a crucial role in bolstering democratic governance in West Africa, where democracy faces threats. Strengthening and deepening democracy in Nigeria is pivotal to reversing this trend and sending a powerful signal to the region,” Isopi said.

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Isopi highlighted two key priorities for the EU in Nigeria: electoral reform and digital infrastructure. She urged the National Assembly to consider amendments to the Electoral Act, particularly regarding the use of technology and investment in digital infrastructure to support the electronic transmission of election results.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who chairs the constitution review committee, pledged to work closely with other legislators, stakeholders, civil society organizations, and legal experts to ensure that proposed amendments reflect the will of the people.