2027 Polls: 33 CSOs Urge Nigerians to Ignore Unverified INEC Redeployment Claims

A coalition of more than 33 civil society organisations has expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging Nigerians not to rush to judgment over recent allegations of questionable staff redeployments within the electoral body.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations Against Corruption (COCSOAC), at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, said public criticism of INEC should be based on verified facts rather than speculation, especially as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

The coalition also congratulated the Secretary of INEC, Dr Rose Oriaran Anthony, on her recent turbaning and appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider reappointing her at the end of her tenure, if permitted by law.

COCSOAC said it had taken note of an online publication alleging that INEC carried out controversial staff redeployments involving senior officials from different parts of the country.

However, the group stressed that it had not independently confirmed either the reported redeployments or the claims that they were politically or ethnically motivated.

In the statement signed by its President, Bola Ademola, and National Secretary, Comrade Abdulfatah Aliyu, the coalition said, “We wish to clarify that we have not independently verified the reported changes or the alleged motives behind them. Consequently, claims of political interference or ethnic favouritism should not be treated as established facts.”

The coalition noted that even if the reported redeployments took place, staff transfers are a normal administrative practice in public institutions and may be carried out to improve efficiency, strengthen management or support professional development.

It added that the origin or family background of any official should not automatically be seen as evidence of bias or an attempt to influence elections.

According to the group, “The relevant questions are whether the decisions complied with applicable rules, were properly authorised and were based on legitimate administrative considerations.”

COCSOAC urged INEC to provide clarification where necessary while calling on the media, civil society organisations and members of the public to avoid drawing premature conclusions.

The coalition also praised Dr Anthony for what it described as her experience and commitment to the Commission, saying continuity in key administrative positions could help preserve institutional knowledge and support preparations for credible elections.

It appealed to President Tinubu to consider reappointing her as INEC Secretary after the expiration of her tenure, provided such a decision complies with the law and established appointment procedures.

The group said, “This appeal is made in the national interest, not as a demand for any appointment outside the law.”

It maintained that accountability and transparency remain essential but warned that allegations against public institutions should always be supported by credible evidence.

COCSOAC further called on all stakeholders to protect public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process through responsible engagement, respect for due process and evidence-based public discourse.

The coalition emphasised that its position was not to shield INEC from scrutiny but to ensure that any allegations against the Commission are properly verified before being accepted as facts.