The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday officially swore in six new Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), a move Chairman Proffessor Mahmood Yakubu described as “a critical step toward strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process.”
The ceremony, held at INEC’s national headquarters in Abuja, was attended by National Commissioners, Directors, family members of the appointees, and other dignitaries. The new RECs include two returning commissioners and four fresh appointees drawn from diverse professional backgrounds.
In his address, Yakubu said the appointments fill existing vacancies and ensure full REC representation across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. He emphasized the gravity of the role, calling it not just a responsibility but a “sacred duty.”
“This is a full-time assignment,” Yakubu told the appointees. “You are to provide leadership, supervise effectively, and uphold the integrity of the Commission by operating strictly within the law.”
The new RECs are, Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem, reappointed for Cross River State, Mukhtar Umar Gajiram also reappointed for Taraba State.
Others are Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris ,appointed to Gombe State, Mrs. Feyijimi Saseyi Ibiyemi, appointed to Ogun State, Chukwueneka Christopher Ibeziako,appointed to Abia State, and Umar Yusuf Garba,ppointed to Sokoto State
The deployment follows INEC’s longstanding policy of assigning RECs outside their states of origin to promote neutrality and reduce potential conflicts of interest.
In addition to the swearing-in, INEC announced key dates for the 2026 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states. While the Ekiti governorship election is set for June 20, 2026 with party primaries scheduled from October 20 to November 10,2. 2025, the Osun governorship election will follow on August 8, 2026, with primaries from November 24 to December 15, 2025.
Speaking on behalf of the new RECs, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, promising unwavering commitment to INEC’s core values.
“We are fully aware that the credibility of elections depends not just on systems, but on the integrity and dedication of those entrusted to conduct them,” he said.
Dr. Idris also praised Prof. Yakubu’s leadership, describing him as a visionary committed to inclusive and credible elections.
As Nigeria heads into a busy electoral season—including anticipated bye-elections and the resumption of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) Monday’s ceremony, as observed by WorldClass247News, underscores INEC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public trust in the nation’s democratic process.