Northern groups fault calls for INEC chairman’s sacking

Two Northern groups, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum and the Northern Awareness Network, have rejected calls for the removal of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

President-General of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, described the calls as “misguided” and “detrimental to the democratic fabric of our nation.”

He emphasised that INEC, under Yakubu’s leadership, has consistently demonstrated fairness, transparency, and integrity in the electoral process.

Shettima, in a statement released to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday, noted that the recent elections, conducted under Yakubu’s guidance, have been characterised by a level of transparency that has earned the confidence of the electorate and acknowledged by local and international observers.

He stressed that the electoral results reflect the will of the people, a testament to the rigorous processes instituted by INEC.

He said, “The calls, primarily emanating from discontented politicians who view power as an end in itself, are not only misguided but also detrimental to the democratic fabric of our nation.

“In recent weeks, we have witnessed a cacophony of voices, driven by self-interest and political opportunism, clamoring for the ousting of Professor Yakubu. Such demands are rooted in a profound misunderstanding of the role of INEC and its leadership.”

Shettima warned that those who engage in such treachery will be held accountable in the fullness of time.

On his part, Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman, echoed Shettima’s sentiments, urging President Bola Tinubu and the INEC chair to remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the rule of law and democratic principles.

He emphasised that the integrity of the nation’s electoral process must not be compromised by the whims of a few disenchanted individuals.

NAN called upon all Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations, instead focusing on constructive dialogue that fosters unity and progress.

“In a democracy, the role of the electoral body is pivotal. INEC is tasked with ensuring free, fair, and credible elections, a responsibility that demands not only integrity but also the unwavering support of all stakeholders.

“The incessant attacks on Professor Yakubu are not merely personal affronts; they are attacks on the very foundation of our democracy. By undermining the credibility of the INEC Chairman, these politicians are, in effect, undermining the electoral process itself, sowing seeds of doubt and mistrust among the electorate,” the group said.

The group reaffirmed its support for Yakubu and INEC, urging all stakeholders to rally behind democratic institutions.

The AYCF and NAN noted that as the country navigates the complexities of its political landscape, it was crucial to recognize that attacks on INEC and its leadership threaten the very foundation of democracy