Datti Baba-Ahmed, the 2023 vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has voiced his concerns regarding the future leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the critical need for a credible successor to the current chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, whose term ends in November 2025. Baba-Ahmed’s call for a reputable replacement stems from his deep-seated critique of the 2023 presidential election, which he alleges was marred by irregularities under Yakubu’s leadership. He emphasizes the importance of appointing someone who will uphold the constitutional requirements for presidential elections, specifically the need for a candidate to secure 25% of the votes in at least two-thirds of the states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Baba-Ahmed’s argument centers on the idea that a flawed electoral process has far-reaching consequences, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s current challenges.
Central to Baba-Ahmed’s argument is the belief that the integrity of the electoral process is paramount to the well-being of the nation. He contends that “electoral fraud” lies at the root of Nigeria’s multifaceted problems, even surpassing insecurity in its significance. He posits a causal link between fraudulent elections and the pervasive insecurity plaguing the country, arguing that the manipulation of electoral outcomes creates an environment conducive to instability and violence. Furthermore, he asserts that corruption is exacerbated by electoral fraud, perpetuating a cycle of malfeasance and hindering national development. Baba-Ahmed also points to the detrimental impact of electoral malpractice on the nation’s youth, arguing that a compromised system undermines their prospects and contributes to societal decay.
Baba-Ahmed’s emphasis on the importance of a credible INEC chairman underscores his conviction that leadership recruitment is the “bane” of Nigeria’s problems. He believes that a flawed electoral system allows unqualified and potentially corrupt individuals to ascend to positions of power, perpetuating a cycle of mismanagement and hindering progress. By advocating for a credible successor to Yakubu, he seeks to ensure that future elections are conducted with transparency and integrity, paving the way for a more accountable and effective government. His call for a leader who will uphold the constitutional provisions for presidential elections highlights the importance of adhering to the rule of law and respecting the democratic process.
The former vice-presidential candidate’s critique of the 2023 presidential election centers on the alleged failure to meet the constitutional requirement of securing 25% of the votes in the FCT. He argues that this constitutional breach undermines the legitimacy of the election outcome and contributes to the ongoing political tensions in the country. By highlighting this specific aspect of the election, Baba-Ahmed seeks to draw attention to the potential consequences of disregarding constitutional provisions and the importance of upholding the rule of law in electoral processes. His insistence on a credible INEC chairman reflects his desire to prevent future electoral irregularities and ensure that future elections are conducted in accordance with the constitution.
Baba-Ahmed’s call for a credible INEC chairman extends beyond the immediate concern of the 2023 election. He sees the appointment of a reputable leader as a crucial step towards addressing the broader challenges facing Nigeria. He believes that a fair and transparent electoral process is essential for fostering good governance, combating corruption, and promoting stability and security. By emphasizing the importance of leadership recruitment, he underscores the need for leaders who are committed to upholding the rule of law, serving the interests of the people, and driving positive change. His argument reflects a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of credible elections and their potential to unlock Nigeria’s vast potential.
In essence, Datti Baba-Ahmed’s plea for a credible INEC chairman is a call for a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. He believes that a reformed electoral system, led by an individual of integrity, is essential for addressing the myriad challenges facing the nation. His arguments highlight the interconnectedness of electoral integrity, good governance, security, and national development. By advocating for a credible successor to Mahmood Yakubu, he champions a future where elections are conducted with transparency and fairness, paving the way for a more prosperous and stable Nigeria. His focus on adherence to constitutional provisions underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting the democratic process as cornerstones of a healthy and functioning society.
