President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has transmitted six nominations to the Senate to fill vacancies at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with the President urging lawmakers to fast-track confirmation ahead of the January 2027 general elections. The announcement was made on October 16, 2026, by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement issued from the State House.
Four National Commissioner Nominees Named
Among the four national commissioner nominees, Professor Mustapha Aliu has been nominated to represent the North West, replacing Professor Abdullahi Zuru. Bashir Muhammed Umar will take the North Central slot previously held by Professor Muhammad Adamu. For the South West, the President picked Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, currently serving as the resident electoral commissioner in Osun State. She is set to replace Professor Cornelius Ajayi, whose tenure expires on October 24, 2026.
In addition, the President reappointed Dr Bala Bila to continue as the national commissioner representing the North East. The nominations come as tenures at the commission expire, creating the urgent need for replacements.
Two New Resident Electoral Commissioners Nominated
Tinubu also nominated two new resident electoral commissioners. Retired permanent secretary Dr Samuel Akinjide Akinleye was nominated to represent Ekiti State, while Zahradden Basiru Sanusi from Jigawa State will replace Professor Saidu Ahmed Babura.
All six nominees are expected to appear before the Senate for screening and confirmation, as required under Nigerian electoral law. The President called on the Senate to fast-track the confirmation process, citing the proximity of the 2027 general elections as the reason for urgency.
Background and Context
Legit.ng has previously reported on INEC's preparations ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle, including ongoing debates around the commission's leadership and operational readiness. The latest nominations aim to ensure the commission is fully constituted in time for the elections.
