The National Chairman of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Alhaji Yabagi Sani, has urged the removal of the president’s authority to appoint the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Resident Electoral Commissioners.
Sani also called for a constitutional review of the section granting the president the power to appoint the Inspector-General of Police.
He made these remarks in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja.
Sani advised the National Assembly to examine these provisions during the ongoing constitutional amendment process, to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
In response to questions on fortifying the country’s democracy, Sani argued that it was improper for the constitution to vest such sensitive responsibilities in the president, who is often an active participant in elections.
“It’s inappropriate for the president to appoint the INEC chairman and all key personnel within the commission,” he said.
“Moreover, in a democracy, the police are the most significant security agency. How then can the president be the one appointing the IGP, DIGs, and others—those responsible for protecting citizens and safeguarding elections?”
He emphasised that the National Assembly must prioritise amending these provisions if it seeks to create a level playing field and deepen democratic practice.
The ADP chairman recommended that Nigeria emulate nations like the United States and Mexico, where police chiefs are elected rather than appointed.
He proposed a more neutral selection process, involving the National Judicial Council, civil society organisations, the media, and other non-partisan bodies, to appoint heads of such critical agencies.
“If these appointments come through an independent process, rather than presidential nomination, those appointed would serve the people—not the president,” Sani noted.
Reflecting on President Bola Tinubu’s two years in office, Sani, who ran in the 2023 presidential election, acknowledged the challenges of governance.
“My approach to evaluating the president begins with personal reflection. If one leads a family, how well is the home managed?” he asked.
“From that standpoint, Tinubu has performed well. Nigeria remains one nation with relative peace, despite persistent insecurity caused by bandits, terrorists, and criminal elements.”
However, he admitted that some areas still fall short. “Certain actions expected of the president have yet to materialise,” he said.
Sani acknowledged Tinubu’s democratic history, stating that he had fought valiantly for democratic governance and should lead by example.
“We expected his presidency to mark a golden age for democracy,” he added.
Sani recalled his own experience during the 2023 presidential election as the National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC). At a tense moment during result collation, when INEC appeared to disregard procedures, he convened a meeting with other party leaders to prevent disruption of the process.
“Though my intervention cost me my position as IPAC chairman, ensuring the survival of democracy remains my greatest satisfaction,” he said.
He concluded by advocating a leadership style that reflects true democratic values and inclusive governance.
“We expect fair representation, particularly in key financial roles, to drive economic development,” Sani said.
He urged President Tinubu to prioritise people-centred policies and programmes that would endear him to the public.