Tinubu Swears In Two INEC Commissioners, CCB Members at FEC Meeting

tinu

In a move to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in new two Commissioners for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Council Chambers of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja, took place just before the commencement of the 27th Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Monday.

The newly inaugurated commissioners are Abdulrazak Tukur, who represents the North West geopolitical zone, and Sunday Aja from Ebonyi State, representing the South East. Their nominations were earlier approved by the Nigerian Senate following a comprehensive screening process after their initial appointments in November 2023.

This development comes at a time when INEC continues to prepare for off-cycle and future general elections amidst increased public scrutiny of its credibility, transparency, and neutrality. President Tinubu’s appointments are seen as part of his broader effort to ensure that electoral processes remain credible and inclusive across all regions.

EFCC To Question Tompolo Over Naira Abuse At Birthday Party Amidst Public Outcry

Federal Government Reinforces Key Institutions With Strategic Appointments

In addition to the INEC commissioners, President Tinubu also administered the oath of office to Ikpeme Ndem from Cross River State and Justice Buba Nyaure from Taraba State, appointing them as members of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). The CCB plays a critical role in promoting transparency and integrity within the public service by monitoring asset declarations and enforcing codes of ethics for public officials.

Monday’s ceremony was concise but symbolic, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to institutional integrity and accountability. After the swearing-in, the Federal Executive Council immediately entered into a closed-door session to discuss ongoing policy matters.

Those present at the meeting included top government officials such as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. Also in attendance were key economic policy leaders, including Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu; and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, among others.

The presence of these high-ranking officials underscored the importance of the day’s proceedings and the administration’s continued focus on good governance and federal coordination.

Strengthening Democracy Through Balanced Representation

The selection of Abdulrazak Tukur and Sunday Aja reflects efforts to ensure a balance of regional representation within INEC. Tukur’s background in administrative and electoral affairs is expected to strengthen operational efficiency in the North West, a region pivotal in national elections due to its large voter population.

Meanwhile, Aja’s appointment is seen as a strategic reinforcement of electoral oversight in the South East, a region that has often faced voter turnout challenges and complex political dynamics. Their inclusion broadens INEC’s capacity to conduct fair and inclusive elections across the federation.

Analysts have noted that the timing of the appointments is crucial, given the need to reinforce INEC’s structure ahead of upcoming elections in states such as Edo and Ondo, and the longer-term goal of preparing for the 2027 general elections.

Code of Conduct Bureau Also Gets Fresh Faces

Equally important is the swearing-in of new members of the Code of Conduct Bureau, an agency vital to Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework. By monitoring the financial and ethical behavior of public servants, the CCB serves as a key pillar in promoting integrity within federal institutions.

Ikpeme Ndem and Justice Buba Nyaure bring with them a wealth of experience in legal and public administration, which is expected to enhance the bureau’s effectiveness. Their appointments come at a time when public expectations for accountability in government are on the rise, and the Tinubu administration continues to push for reforms that promote transparency.

Prioritizing Made-in-Nigeria Initiatives

Monday’s meeting also follows the FEC’s May 5 approval of the Renewed Hope Nigeria-First Policy, an initiative aimed at encouraging the procurement of locally made goods and services by all government agencies. This policy is part of President Tinubu’s broader economic agenda to reduce dependence on imports, stimulate local industries, and create sustainable jobs.

The policy’s rollout is expected to align with the Federal Government’s push to revitalize domestic manufacturing and build self-reliance across sectors ranging from construction and agriculture to technology and defense.

As the FEC’s closed-door session progressed, it was anticipated that discussions would also focus on budget implementation, security coordination, and infrastructure development, particularly in the light of ongoing socioeconomic challenges facing the country.

 A Unified Vision for Governance

The swearing-in of new officials and the reaffirmation of federal policy direction signal a continued commitment by the Tinubu administration to entrench credible governance and uphold democratic principles. With electoral integrity and public accountability at the center of Monday’s events, the Federal Government appears determined to lay down the foundations for a stable and progressive Nigeria.