The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) and the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) have both condemned the recent attacks against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, describing it as politically motivated.
In separate statements, both groups described the assaults on the INEC chairman aa attempts to undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions and destabilize public confidence in the electoral process.
NAN, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, defended Professor Yakubu against what it described as a campaign of misinformation and vilification orchestrated by certain politicians.
According to Suleiman, these attacks, masked as concerns from supposed civil society groups and anonymous INEC staff, are merely a tactic used by desperate political figures who aim to manipulate the public and the upcoming electoral processes for their own gain.
NAN noted that similar patterns of harassment were evident before the Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi, and Edo State governorship elections, and now, as the Ondo State Governorship Election approaches, these tactics have resurfaced.
Addressing a specific claim that INEC has failed to implement the National Minimum Wage Act 2024 for its staff, NAN stated that these accusations are unfounded. It clarified that Professor Yakubu has been transparent about the financial limitations faced by the commission and the need for prudent fiscal management.
The group urged Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and recognize these accusations as a ploy to divert attention from genuine electoral issues.
Similarly, the AYCF, led by its President General, Yerima Shettima, described the renewed calls for Professor Yakubu’s removal as mischievous and driven by discontented politicians. Shettima highlighted that these calls are based on a misunderstanding of INEC’s leadership role and are detrimental to the democratic stability of the nation.
Shettima praised Professor Yakubu’s commitment to transparent and credible elections, which have gained the confidence of both Nigerian citizens and international observers.
The AYCF condemned what it termed as the involvement of figures like Lawyer Anthony Ehilebo, whom it accused of leading a smear campaign against Yakubu.
It warned that such individuals would face accountability for their actions aimed at destabilising the electoral process.
The forum underscored that the integrity of elections is central to democracy and that attempts to undermine INEC’s credibility are ultimately attacks on Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
Both NAN and AYCF called on all stakeholders, including political leaders and the public, to support INEC and protect it from these orchestrated assaults.
They urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Professor Yakubu to remain committed to upholding the rule of law and the democratic principles that safeguard Nigeria’s future.
The groups however emphasised the need for unity and constructive engagement to strengthen democracy and ensure the electorate’s voice is respected in every election.
