The Peoples Democratic Party in Niger State has condemned the appointment of Engr. Mohammed Jibrin Imam, a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state, as the head of the Niger State Independent National Electoral Commission.
In a statement issued by Yahaya Ability, the State Vice Chairman and Zonal Chairman of Niger North Senatorial District, the PDP rejected the appointment. The party questioned the governor’s decision, noting that previous appointments to similar positions were filled by neutral civil servants, regardless of the ruling party in power.
The PDP pointed out that under previous administrations, such as those led by Governors Engr. A.A. Kure and Muazu Babangida Aliyu, as well as during the APC-led government of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, the positions were filled by civil servants to ensure impartiality and fairness in the electoral process.
The party argued that the appointment of a former APC chairman to head the NSIEC raises concerns about the neutrality of the electoral process, potentially undermining public trust and creating fear among opposition parties. The PDP further emphasized that the Nigerian constitution mandates impartiality in the conduct of elections.
The PDP also called on Governor Mohammed Bago to reconsider the appointment, urging him to restore public confidence in the electoral process and ensure that all parties have a fair opportunity to participate.
Governor Bago recently appointed Engr. Mohammed Jibrin Imam as Chairman of NSIEC, along with six other commissioners, including Barr. M.A. Liman, Nasiru Ubandiya, Yahaya Idris Abara, Capt. Mohammed Baro, Kabiru Tanko Zama, Barr. Amina Guar, and Barr. Ahmed Borgu. These appointments are subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
“During the PDP administration, particularly under Governor Engr. A.A. Kure, the State INEC Chairman was Alhaji Maman Auna, a neutral civil servant. Similarly, during His Excellency Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu’s administration, the Chief Servant, it was Alhaji Danlami Dallatu, a neutral person.
“Even during the APC administration of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, it was Alhaji Baba Aminu, a civil servant, ensuring free and fair elections,” Ability said.
He questioned the governor’s decision, saying, “Why is your own different, imposing your will on the people without carrying everyone along?”
He added, “No opposition party can confidently participate in elections under an electoral body led by a member of the ruling party.”
