Tinubu advised on qualities needed in next INEC chairman

As the current Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, prepares to leave office in December, a group called the African Democratic Youth Congress (ADYC) is asking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint a new chairman with strong integrity and leadership skills.

During a press conference in Abuja, ADYC’s Director-General, Prince Muritala Haliru Dantoro, said the success of Nigeria’s elections depends on having a trustworthy and capable person leading INEC. He urged President Tinubu to choose someone who will put the nation first and not be influenced by political or personal interests.

Dantoro also criticized the increasing issue of vote buying in Nigerian elections. He called it a serious problem that harms democracy and said stricter punishments are needed before the 2027 general elections.

He warned that vote buying gives power to the wrong people—those who care more about personal gain than serving the public—and this slows down development in the country.

He encouraged young Nigerians to get involved in politics and leadership, saying their participation is key to building a stronger democracy.

“We need to go into every village and town to teach people about the power of their vote and the danger of selling it. Vote buying is a form of electoral fraud and a major threat to our nation’s future,” Dantoro added.

Also speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of ADYC, Mrs. Ruqayya Lamido Dodo, said young people are tired of being ignored and sidelined.

“For years, we’ve been called ‘leaders of tomorrow,’ but we are ready to lead today. We are not just a youth group; we are starting a new movement to build a better Nigeria,” she said.

A new INEC chairman is expected to resume in December and will oversee all  the activities of the Commission as well the conduct of the 2027 general and local government elections.