The Progressive Writers Association of Nigeria (PWAN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the appointment of a Yoruba man as the next National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the tenure of the current chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, comes to an end in December 2025.
The association emphasised the need for fairness, equity, and national balance in the leadership of the country’s electoral body.
In a statement signed by its President, Wole Adedoyin, PWAN highlighted that since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, no Yoruba individual has been appointed to head INEC. The leadership of the commission has historically been dominated by individuals from other regions of the country, leaving the Yoruba ethnic group unrepresented at the helm of the electoral body.
The association cited the names of past INEC Chairmen, including Ephraim Akpata (1998–2000), Abel Guobadia (2000–2005), Maurice Iwu (2005–2010), Attahiru Jega (2010–2015), and the outgoing chairman, Mahmood Yakubu (2015–present), none of whom were of Yoruba descent. This trend, PWAN argues, undermines the principle of inclusivity in national leadership and must be corrected in the forthcoming appointment.
PWAN stressed that the Yoruba ethnic group has produced highly competent and experienced professionals who are capable of handling the responsibilities of the INEC Chairman. The association expressed confidence that President Tinubu, being a Yoruba leader himself, understands the importance of national inclusivity and will take the necessary steps to ensure justice in the selection process.
Furthermore, the association pointed out that fairness in national appointments fosters unity and strengthens democracy. It argued that ensuring a Yoruba man is appointed as INEC Chairman would not only correct historical imbalances but also reassure all ethnic groups of their stake in Nigeria’s governance structure.
PWAN also called on civil society organizations, political stakeholders, and the general public to support this call for fairness. The association emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when all regions and ethnic groups are given equal opportunities to contribute to national development.
The association reiterated that its demand is not based on ethnic sentiment but on the need for equitable representation in national institutions. It noted that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, deserves an equal opportunity to serve at the highest levels of governance, including in electoral management.
As preparations begin for the appointment of the next INEC Chairman, PWAN urged President Tinubu to prioritize competence, experience, and integrity while also ensuring regional balance. It maintained that the Yoruba people have demonstrated commitment to democracy and governance in Nigeria and should be given a chance to lead the commission.
