The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is currently exploring options to severe ties with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), over the 2023 presidential ambition of the bank’s governor, Godwin Emefiele.
DAILY GIST gathered that the commission is worried over sensitive electoral materials stored at the apex bank’s vaults.
Recall that Emefiele had sued the electoral commission and the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami over a plot to disqualify him from contesting. Emefiele, through his lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, in an ex-parte application, sought to remain in office and still contest the general elections.
He argued that his client was not a political appointee but a public servant, hence not subject to Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022.
Speaking on the matter, the Spokesman of the commission, Rotimi Oyekanmi disclosed that the electoral body is set to review its long-standing relationship with the bank.
“The strategic partnership between the CBN and INEC, which enables the Commission to store its sensitive election materials with the apex bank, has been in place for many years and is beneficial in several ways.
“Indeed, there have been various reports that the CBN Governor is nursing the intention of running for the office of president, but, he is yet to formally declare his intention to run as of today.”
“However, if and when he eventually does, the Commission will look at the implications and take a decision on what becomes of the long-standing strategic partnership with the CBN.”
