By Nworisa Michael
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticised the reported nomination of the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for an ambassadorial appointment, describing the move as damaging to public trust and harmful to Nigeria’s democratic credibility.
In a statement released on his official social media handle, Atiku said he would “under no circumstance” nominate the former electoral chief if he were President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to him, the decision raises “serious concerns” and risks being interpreted as a quid pro quo rather than a merit-based appointment. He warned that the action paints “terrible optics” for an administration he said is already battling issues of public confidence.
Atiku argued that rewarding an electoral umpire who presided over what he called “one of the most disputed elections in our history” sends the wrong signal to the present INEC leadership, potentially normalising compromised or poorly managed elections.
He maintained that the move is “morally indefensible” and undermines efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.
“This is not the path to strengthening our democracy or restoring public trust in our institutions,” he stated.
The reaction adds to growing public debate surrounding the nomination process for top diplomatic roles, especially those involving former electoral officials.