34 CSOs Back INEC, Urge Caution Over Alleged Staff Redeployment

A coalition of 34 civil society organisations has expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging Nigerians to exercise caution over allegations of questionable staff redeployment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations Against Corruption (COCSOAC) and its partner organisations said the allegations, which include the reported reassignment of a Northern director and the placement of South-West officials in key departments, had not been independently verified.

The coalition made its position known at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, warning against drawing conclusions about alleged political interference or ethnic favouritism without credible evidence.

It stressed that while INEC should be held accountable for its actions, allegations against the commission must be subjected to verification, due process and an opportunity for those concerned to respond.

According to the organisations, staff redeployment is a recognised administrative practice that may be undertaken to improve operational efficiency, support professional development and strengthen management.

They argued that an official’s geographical origin or family connections alone could not establish bias or an intention to manipulate elections.

The coalition urged stakeholders to focus on whether the reported redeployments complied with applicable regulations, received the necessary authorisation and were based on legitimate administrative considerations.

It also called on INEC to provide clarification on the matter where appropriate, while cautioning the media and civil society groups against reaching premature conclusions.

“As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, INEC remains central to the country’s democratic process,” the coalition said, adding that public confidence in electoral institutions was better protected through responsible scrutiny than unverified allegations.

The organisations also congratulated INEC Secretary, Dr Rose Oriaran Anthony, on her turbaning and highlighted the importance of experience and administrative continuity in election management.

They appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider Anthony for reappointment as INEC secretary at the end of her tenure, subject to applicable laws and appointment procedures.

The coalition said retaining an experienced official, where legally permissible and justified by competence, could help preserve institutional knowledge, improve coordination and support preparations for peaceful and credible elections.

It, however, maintained that any decision on the appointment must respect the law, INEC’s independence and the integrity of the electoral process.

COCSOAC President, Bola Ademola, and its National Secretary, Comrade Abdulfatah Aliyu, signed the statement.

The coalition urged political actors, the media and other stakeholders to promote transparency, evidence-based engagement and respect for due process as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections.