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Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs), an umbrella body of more than 75 Civil Society Organisations nationwide, have declared strong support for ongoing demands for sweeping electoral reforms and the appointment of an incorruptible Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the expiration of the tenure of Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu.

In a joint statement signed by Comrade James Ezema, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the CNPP, and Alhaji Ali Abacha, National Secretary of the CNCSOs, the groups emphasized that the integrity, character, and credibility of the next INEC Chairman, along with urgent reforms to the country’s electoral process, are indispensable to preventing Nigeria’s democracy from collapsing.

“While electoral reforms and the appointment of a man or woman of unquestionable integrity to steer the affairs of INEC are critical steps towards restoring the sanctity of the ballot and citizens’ confidence in our democracy, history has shown that it is near impossible for any beneficiary of a flawed electoral process or an unpopular government to willingly yield to such demands by the people,” the statement read.

The organisations, however, insisted that the burden of responsibility now rests with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate statesmanship and rise above partisan and personal interests. They cautioned that although such reforms may appear inconvenient for his administration, they remain the only honourable course of action.

“The demand for electoral reforms and for an incorruptible, fearless, and transparent leadership of INEC may seem inconvenient for the current administration but it is the only path of honour open to President Tinubu. Anything short of that will not only erode public trust further but also endanger the future of Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement continued.

The CNPP and CNCSOs further stressed that with the 2027 general elections approaching, the country cannot afford to repeat another electoral cycle characterized by controversies, violence, and mass disillusionment.

“For Nigeria to avert deeper crises, the government must urgently commit to genuine electoral reforms and ensure that the next INEC Chairman is a person whose moral capital is beyond reproach. This singular act will be a defining legacy for President Tinubu and his administration, one that will demonstrate leadership, patriotism, and statesmanship,” the statement concluded.

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