Breaking: INEC Finalizes Nationwide Staffing With New RECs – 2027 Elections Just Got Real

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally sworn in six new Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) to fill existing vacancies across the country.

At the ceremony held on Friday in the INEC Conference Room, Abuja, the Commission’s Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, described the development as a “critical milestone” in advancing Nigeria’s electoral system.

Welcoming the appointees, Prof. Yakubu noted that their deployment completes the Commission’s staffing across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The occasion was witnessed by National Commissioners, the Commission’s Secretary, Directors, and family members of the new RECs.

The INEC boss emphasized the gravity of their roles, calling the conduct of elections not just a major responsibility but a “sacred duty.”

“Your appointment is full-time, not part-time. You are expected to provide leadership and ensure effective oversight,” he stated.

He reminded the RECs to operate within the bounds of the law, uphold the oath of office, and engage constructively with stakeholders while maintaining transparency and professionalism.

The new RECs include two returning members — Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem and Mukhtar Umar Gajiram, who are beginning their second terms — and four fresh appointees:

• Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris and Mrs. Feyijimi Saseyi Ibiyemi, both former INEC staff,

• Chukwuemeka Christopher Ibeziako, a legal expert, and

• Umar Yusuf Garba, an experienced private sector administrator.

Prof. Yakubu also revealed that the RECs would be posted to states outside their origin within their respective geopolitical zones to promote neutrality and reduce potential conflicts of interest.

The new postings are:

• Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris – Gombe State

• Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem – Cross River State

• Mrs. Feyijimi Ibiyemi – Ogun State

• Mukhtar Umar Gajiram – Taraba State

• Chukwuemeka C. Ibeziako – Abia State

• Umar Yusuf Garba – [State not fully specified]

During the event, INEC also announced the timetable for the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States:

• Ekiti State: Election on June 20, 2026, with party primaries from October 20 to November 10, 2025.

• Osun State: Election on August 8, 2026, with primaries between November 24 and December 15, 2025.

Speaking on behalf of the appointees, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

“This call to serve our nation is an honor we take very seriously. We recognize that electoral credibility relies not only on systems, but also on the integrity of those in charge,” he said.

He pledged unwavering commitment to INEC’s core values and the Nigerian Constitution, assuring stakeholders of their collective resolve to deliver elections marked by integrity, impartiality, and professionalism.

Dr. Idris also praised Prof. Yakubu’s visionary leadership, citing his efforts in promoting inclusivity and innovation as sources of renewed confidence in the electoral process.

The gathering concluded with a minute of silent prayer in memory of the late Major General Abubakar Modibbo Alkali (Rtd), a former Commissioner, who passed away in April.

As Nigeria prepares for a wave of critical elections, including bye-elections and the resumption of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), the swearing-in marks a renewed push by INEC to strengthen democratic institutions and restore public trust in the electoral process.