This initiative follows longstanding calls to sever the President’s control over key institutions, with critics arguing that such powers compromise the independence of the electoral body and the judiciary, as those in power can manipulate them to serve their interests.

The coalition is proposing that these appointments be transferred to a new independent body composed of non-partisan, integrity-vetted Nigerians. This, they argue, would prevent any executive influence over the electoral and judicial processes, fostering greater transparency and fairness in elections.

At a recent press briefing in Abuja, SDMA’27 spokesperson Tony Akeni Le Moin announced the coalition’s plan to launch a nationwide campaign, which will culminate in a “boot camp” event in the capital. The coalition aims to garner national consensus across political, religious, and civil society groups to build support for constitutional reforms. Their ultimate goal is to create a unified demand for a national conference, which would propose these critical amendments to both the National and State Assemblies.

Prominent political figures and pro-democracy groups, including Professor Pat Utomi, have rallied behind the movement, calling it a crucial step towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. Utomi cited the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform Report as a key reference for initiating these reforms, highlighting its recommendations for executive appointment reforms to enhance the independence of both INEC and the judiciary.

The coalition’s three-point plan involves mobilizing public opinion, building political momentum, and lobbying for legal changes that will strip the executive of its control over key appointments in INEC and the judiciary. They also warned that without these reforms, Nigeria’s 2027 elections risk repeating the electoral manipulations that marred the 2023 elections.

In support of this initiative, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, president of the Middle Belt Forum, argued that the focus should not solely be on who appoints the heads of electoral and judicial bodies, but on who has the power to remove them. He emphasized the need for stronger institutions and checks and balances that would deter any undue influence, even if the appointment powers remain with the President.

Meanwhile, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, president of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), expressed skepticism about the feasibility of creating an independent body to oversee such appointments, given Nigeria’s centralized political system. He questioned whether a truly independent body could function effectively under the current structure, where the President wields significant power.

Others, like Adebayo Fadipe, a PDP chieftain in Lagos State, supported the proposal, emphasizing that removing the President’s control over INEC would restore the integrity of the electoral body and lead to more credible elections. He pointed out that past INEC chairmen have often compromised their positions due to executive pressure, but an independent commission would allow for a fairer electoral process.

The coalition believes that stripping the President of appointment powers and transferring them to an independent body would mark a new era for electoral integrity in Nigeria, eliminating manipulation and ensuring elections are free and fair.