INEC's Gummi and Adeyemi-Showunmi Redeployed Amid Concerns

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed the redeployment of Isah Magaji Gummi from the Electoral Operations Department to the Voter Registry Department. Concurrently, Mrs Oluyemi Titilayo Adeyemi-Showunmi has been appointed to head the Electoral Operations Department, previously serving as the Administrative Secretary of INEC’s Lagos office.

The changes have sparked speculation regarding ethnic representation within INEC, as many key departments are now reportedly led by individuals from the same ethnic group. A source within INEC stated that such postings are routine and conducted for administrative purposes, although they declined to comment further on the specifics of the changes.

The Electoral Operations Department is crucial for coordinating logistics and activities essential for conducting elections. Paul Ibe, spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has called for INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan to clarify the rationale behind these appointments, emphasizing the need for transparency in ensuring compliance with the federal character principle.