The inauguration, conducted by INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, took place during a meeting in Abuja, where the officials were reminded of the weighty responsibility and sacred duty associated with overseeing elections.
The REC designate from Akwa Ibom State, Etekamba Umoren, will undergo swearing-in procedures in January 2024, following the expiration of the incumbent's tenure.
Prof Yakubu emphasised the significance of fair and transparent elections and urged the RECs to maintain the commission's tradition of consulting with key stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, the media, traditional institutions, religious bodies, and security agencies.
He cautioned against engaging in futile debates while remaining open to constructive criticism. Prof Yakubu urged the newly appointed RECs to operate within the limits of their delegated powers and responsibilities, emphasising accountability for their actions.
The chairman commended the outgoing REC in Delta State, Dr. Monday Udo Tom, for his dedicated service and announced the deployment of the new RECs within their geo-political zones, avoiding their respective states of origin.
The appointed RECs include Abubakar Dambo Sarkin Pawa (Kebbi), Abubakar Ma’aji Ahmed (Borno), Dr. Anugbum Onuoha (Edo), Ehimeakhe Shaka Isah (Akwa Ibom), Mallam Aminu Idris (Kaduna), Mohammed Sadiq Abubakar (Kwara), Mrs. Oluwatoyin O. Babalola (Ondo), Olubunmi O. Omoseyindemi (Ekiti), and Shehu L. Wahab (Nasarawa).