By Nigerian News24 staff
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is seeking key amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 to enhance the country’s electoral framework.
During a retreat with the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Electoral Matters, Mohammad Kuna, Special Adviser to INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, outlined proposed reforms aimed at improving election administration.
A major recommendation is granting INEC the authority to appoint State Directors of Elections (SDEs), who would function with the same powers as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs). Currently, RECs are appointed by the President to oversee elections at the state level.
Additionally, INEC is proposing amendments to Section 14(3)(f) of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution and Section 6(3) of the Electoral Act 2022. These changes would empower the commission to appoint and discipline heads of its state and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) offices, ensuring greater operational control.
“Recent developments, particularly during and after the 2023 general elections, highlight the need for INEC to have stronger authority in appointing state-level officials,” Kuna stated.
The commission emphasized that these reforms are part of broader efforts to enhance electoral integrity, efficiency, and independence in future elections.