President Muhammadu Buhari’s aide, Lauretta Onochie’s nomination to serve as National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission has been rejected by the Nigeria Senate on Tuesday.
Onochie’s non confirmation followed the report by the Senate Committee on (INEC), Senator Kabir Gaya who said her nomination breaches Federal Character principles.
Kabir Gaya cited Section 14 (1) 3 of the Constitution, stating that somebody was already a Commissioner from her zone which the law was very clear.
Kabir Gaya while explaining the findings of the Committee recalled that one, May Agbamuche-Mbu from Delta was already serving, hence, Onochie’s confirmation would be injuries to fairness that is required in Nigeria.
Also, Prof. Sani Muhammad Adam who was to represent North Central as a National Commissioner has also been rejected.
Prof. Sani rejection followed petitions which were mounted against his nomination.
Gaya however pleaded for more time for the Committee to properly look into the petition.
Those who were confirmed are:
1. Prof. Muhammad Sani Kallah – Katsina
2. Prof. Kunkle Carnelius Ajayi – Ekiti
3. Said Babura Ahmad – Jigawa
4. Dr. Baba Bila
5. Prof. Abdullahi Zuru
