Former presidential spokesman Reuben Abati has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to explain how a serving chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) became an accredited observer during the Ekiti State governorship election.
The Abati APC chair INEC observer controversy began after photos appeared online showing Edo APC chairman Jarrett Tenebe wearing an INEC observer vest. The images quickly sparked reactions from politicians, civil society groups, and many Nigerians.
Speaking on Arise Television, Abati said the situation raises serious questions about the credibility of the election. He argued that election observers should remain neutral at all times. Therefore, he believes INEC must explain how a serving party chairman received observer accreditation.
According to Abati, public trust in elections depends on fairness and transparency. He said Nigerians deserve a clear explanation because the issue affects confidence in the country’s electoral process. He added that every action taken by the electoral commission should be open to public scrutiny.
Meanwhile, the controversy continued to generate debate on social media. Many Nigerians questioned whether a political party official should be allowed to serve in any observer capacity during an election. Others called on INEC to release more details about the accreditation process.
However, Tenebe denied doing anything wrong. He explained that he travelled to Ekiti to support his party but did not visit any polling unit on election day. He also said he belongs to a non-governmental organisation that received accreditation from INEC.
According to him, he remained in his hotel throughout the election and did not monitor voting or interfere with the process. He insisted that his presence in Ekiti did not violate any electoral guideline.
Even so, Abati maintained that the explanation does not remove the need for answers from INEC. He stressed that the commission should address the concerns openly to protect its credibility.
The Abati APC chair INEC observer issue has continued to attract national attention. Political observers believe a detailed response from INEC could help clear public doubts and strengthen confidence ahead of future elections.
For now, many Nigerians are waiting for the electoral commission to speak on the matter. Until then, the Abati APC chair INEC observer debate is likely to remain part of the wider discussion about transparency, accountability, and public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.
