Skip to main content

 Ibrahim Kanje Bawa SAN's Contributions and Achievements at INEC


Ibrahim Kanje Bawa’s tenure at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from 1993 to 2016 is distinguished by substantial contributions that have left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s electoral system. His work at INEC includes significant achievements in legal reforms, advisory roles, and upholding electoral integrity.


Electoral Reforms and Legal Framework


1. Drafting Electoral Acts: Bawa was pivotal in drafting key legal documents, including the Electoral Acts of 2001, 2002, and 2006. These Acts were instrumental in shaping the legal framework for elections in Nigeria, enhancing transparency and accountability.


2. Transition to Civil Rule Decrees: He played a significant role in drafting decrees that facilitated Nigeria's transition from military to civilian rule, crucial for re-establishing democratic governance in the country.


Legal Services and Advisory Roles


3. Principal Legal Officer: As Principal Legal Officer, Bawa provided essential legal advice and support to INEC, helping to navigate complex legal challenges during elections.


4. Acting Director of Legal Services: Bawa served as Acting Director of Legal Services at INEC headquarters on two occasions, overseeing the legal department and ensuring compliance with electoral laws and regulations.


5. Director of Legal Services: Appointed as the Director of Legal Services in 2015, Bawa managed all legal matters for the commission, including litigations, contracts, and advising on electoral laws and reforms.


Investigations and Legal Panels


6. Investigating Election Results: Bawa served on various committees and panels investigating local government election results, addressing electoral disputes, and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.


7. Legal Adviser: As a legal adviser to the legislative arms of local government areas and other bodies, Bawa provided critical legal guidance, ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks.


Impact on Electoral Integrity


8. Promoting Electoral Integrity: Throughout his career at INEC, Bawa was dedicated to promoting electoral integrity. His efforts were instrumental in curbing electoral malpractices and fostering a culture of free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.


9. Capacity Building: Bawa contributed to building the capacity of INEC’s legal team, mentoring young lawyers, and imparting his extensive knowledge and experience, thereby strengthening the commission's overall legal capability.


Legacy


Ibrahim Kanje Bawa SAN's legacy at INEC is characterized by his unwavering commitment to legal excellence and electoral integrity. His contributions to electoral legal frameworks and advisory roles have significantly enhanced the credibility and transparency of Nigeria's electoral process. Bawa’s work has left an indelible mark on INEC and continues to influence the conduct of elections in Nigeria. His impressive resume serves as an inspiration and motivation, especially during times of economic challenges, emphasizing the need for skilled and experienced individuals to guide the nation toward greater heights. With his wealth of experience and proven track record, Ibrahim Kanje Bawa remains a valuable asset to Nigeria. Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

 THE ILLEGAL AND HEALTH RISKS OF CONSUMING CROCODILE MEAT IN NIGERIA: I thought you should know Eating suya is considered the ultimate African street food, particularly popular in countries like Nigeria. However, in recent times, some individuals have strayed from the norm, venturing into consuming endangered animals—a dangerous practice that can have serious legal consequences. In Nigeria, the consumption of grilled crocodile meat—or crocodile meat in any form—can land you in jail. Yes, you heard that correctly. The Nigerian government has sued individuals for killing and consuming crocodiles, citing violations of environmental and wildlife protection laws. In cities like Abuja and Lagos, there are numerous joints where crocodile meat is openly sold, often without the knowledge of customers regarding the dangers and legal risks involved. If you are caught buying or eating such meat by government enforcement agents, you could face arrest and prosecution. Importantly, ignorance of t...
Post a Comment
Read more
 ARE COWS MORE VALUABLE THAN HUMANS IN NIGERIA? WHAT IS THE VALUE OF LIFE IN A NATION IN CRISIS — HOW MANY MORE MUST DIE? By Daniel Okonkwo In recent years, the value of human life in Nigeria has come under intense scrutiny, particularly due to the relentless attacks on farming communities, primarily in the Middle Belt and North-Central regions. The haunting question that continues to echo across local and international discourse is: Are cows more valuable than human beings in Nigeria? This question becomes even more unsettling when viewed through the lens of recurring, unprovoked attacks by armed herdsmen—mostly identified as Fulani militants—on rural communities. Headlines consistently portray the devastating impact of these attacks: “At least 21 killed in Nigeria after herdsmen attack villagers,” “At least 140 villagers killed by suspected herders,” and “On April 12, 2022, armed herdsmen attacked several villages in Benue State, killing over 25 people and injuring many more.” Th...
Post a Comment
Read more

Security Chiefs, Do Your Job—Nigerians Are Dying: The Herders-Farmers Conflict Rooted in Land, Law, and Neglect

 Security Chiefs, Do Your Job—Nigerians Are Dying: The Herders-Farmers Conflict Rooted in Land, Law, and Neglect By Daniel Okonkwo For close to three decades, a brutal and persistent conflict has gripped Nigeria’s Middle Belt, with the state of Benue emerging as one of its bloodiest epicenters. What began as tensions between itinerant herders and local farmers has evolved into an entrenched humanitarian and security crisis. Despite Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees and land governance framework, the conflict continues to claim lives, displace communities, and erode the nation’s socio-political cohesion.  Why can't herders—like every other Nigerian—buy land or peacefully negotiate for grazing rights with host communities? Instead, there have been recurring reports of herders trespassing on farmland, destroying crops, and engaging in deadly confrontations with local populations. This crisis intensified during the previous administration and has escalated dramatically in recent...
Post a Comment
Read more