By Jikan waziri
Professor Attahiru Jega is a highly suitable candidate to succeed Professor Mahmud Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), given his impending tenure end on November 9, 2025. Nigeria is approaching a critical point, and Jega's reputation as a seasoned academic and former INEC chairman underscores his integrity and electoral expertise. His impressive history, leadership abilities, and steadfast commitment to democratic values present a strong argument for appointing him as Yakubu's successor.
Key qualities that define Professor Jega include his incorruptibility and integrity, earning respect for his firm stance against corruption and dedication to truth. His electoral expertise is highlighted by his tenure as INEC chairman from 2010 to 2015, overseeing credible polls like the pivotal 2015 general elections. Notably, he showed remarkable composure handling incidents such as the Orubebe challenge at the Abuja collation center. Jega's steadfastness and calmness reflect his strength in navigating complex processes, and he's an advocate for reforms, vocally criticizing issues like executive immunity while pushing for technological integration to enhance transparency.
Jega's achievements are noteworthy. He managed the 2015 elections, widely seen as credible and marking a significant power transition. He served as Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, showcasing academic leadership. His policy advocacy includes calls for judicial reform, removing executive immunity, and boosting citizen participation in democracy. Currently, he's Special Adviser and Coordinator of the Presidential Livestock Reform Initiative, appointed by President Bola Tinubu.
Reasons supporting Jega for INEC Chairman include his proven track record delivering credible elections and restoring process confidence. He champions transparency, advocating technologies like biometric accreditation and electronic result transmission. Jega supports reforms strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountability.
Professor Jega's combination of experience, integrity, and forward-looking vision makes him a strong candidate to lead INEC, helping ensure Nigeria's electoral processes stay transparent and credible.
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Opinion