CUPP Criticises INEC for Allowing FCDA Build It’s New Headquarters

The decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to allow the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to construct its new national headquarters has been met with strong criticism from the opposition. Mr. Peter Ameh, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties.

Ameh condemned the move, citing concerns over the politicization of the electoral umpire.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ameh argued that the decision undermines INEC’s constitutional independence, which is safeguarded by Section 158(1) of the 1999 Constitution.

He also pointed out that the Electoral Act 2022 provides for a direct line charge to INEC’s budget, ensuring financial independence through funds drawn directly from the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

“The justification offered by INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, that the FCDA’s role in building the commission’s initial headquarters validates its current involvement, is outdated and indefensible,” Ameh said. “Nigeria’s electoral laws have evolved significantly, and such arrangements are no longer acceptable for an institution tasked with conducting free, fair, and credible elections.”

Ameh expressed concerns that the involvement of the FCDA, an agency under the Federal Capital Territory Administration, could compromise INEC’s impartiality and erode public trust in the electoral process.

He also noted that the decision contradicts the purpose of the direct line charge, which empowers INEC to independently budget for its operational and infrastructural needs.

Furthermore, Ameh criticized INEC’s prioritization of the new headquarters over the welfare of its staff, who he described as the “bureaucratic backbone of the commission.”

He called on INEC to immediately halt the arrangement with the FCDA and leverage its direct line charge to independently fund and manage the construction of its headquarters.

The National Assembly has also been urged to exercise its oversight powers to ensure that INEC’s budget reflects its infrastructural and operational needs without reliance on external agencies.

Ameh emphasized that the Nigerian people deserve an electoral body that upholds its constitutional mandate of independence and prioritizes the mechanisms that drive credible elections.

“The integrity of our electoral process is at stake, and we must act swiftly to protect it ahead of the 2027 elections,” Ameh warned. “Any attempt to undermine INEC’s autonomy threatens the foundation of our democracy.”