TDFormer Senate President David Mark has issued a strong call for the resignation or dismissal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) along with all National Commissioners.
Senator Mark made the call after INEC removed him and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola from ADC portal and suspended recognition of party leadership.
He made the remarks while speaking at a press briefing held at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja on Thursday.
He sharply criticized the current leadership of INEC, .
The former Senate President alleged that the commission has failed in its constitutional duty to guarantee credible, transparent, and fair elections.
He argued that the erosion of public confidence in the electoral process has reached a critical point, demanding urgent corrective action.
“The INEC Chairman and all National Commissioners must resign or be sacked.
“Nigerians deserve an electoral body that commands respect and confidence,” Mark declared.
His words resonated with the audience of journalists, political stakeholders, and civil society representatives.
Context and Implications
Mark’s remarks come at a time of heightened debate over electoral reforms in Nigeria.
Recent elections have been marred by allegations of irregularities, logistical failures, and accusations of bias.
These have prompted widespread criticism from opposition parties, civil society groups, and international observers.
His intervention adds weight to calls for accountability and reform, particularly given his stature as a former Senate President and one of Nigeria’s longest-serving legislators.
Public Reaction
Political analysts suggest that Mark’s demand could intensify pressure on INEC.
The electoral umpire has already faced scrutiny over its handling of voter registration, election logistics, and result collation.
The statement also reflects broader frustrations among Nigerians who feel that the credibility of democratic institutions is being undermined.
INEC Mum and Next Steps
INEC has kept mum and has yet to issue an official response to Mark’s comments.
Meanwhile, the demand is expected to spark debate within political circles and may influence ongoing discussions about restructuring the commission.
Civil society organizations have long advocated for reforms that would strengthen INEC’s independence and improve transparency.
In the meantime, opposition parties have repeatedly questioned the commission’s impartiality.
Observers note that calls for leadership change at INEC are not unprecedented.
Mark’s intervention, however, underscores the urgency of the moment.
With Nigeria’s democracy facing mounting challenges, the debate over electoral integrity is likely to dominate political discourse in the coming months.
Broader Significance
David Mark’s statement highlights the growing tension between Nigeria’s political class and its electoral institutions.
It also raises questions about how the country can rebuild trust in its democratic processes.
For many Nigerians, the credibility of INEC is central to ensuring that elections reflect the will of the people.
As the nation looks ahead to future polls, the demand for accountability and reform within INEC may prove to be a defining issue in shaping Nigeria’s democratic trajectory.
