Arewa groups under the aegis of Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and Northern Awareness Network (NAN) have described the recent resurgence of calls for the removal of the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu as mischievous and uncalled for.
A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima of AYCF and made available to newsmen in Kaduna 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”.
Yerima said, “it is imperative to clarify that under Professor Yakubu’s stewardship, INEC has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity in the electoral process. The commission has consistently upheld the sanctity of our elections, ensuring that the voices of the Nigerian people are heard and respected.
“The integrity of elections is a cornerstone of any democratic society, and the AYCF stands firmly behind INEC’s efforts to fortify this principle. The recent elections, conducted under Professor Yakubu’s guidance, have been characterized by a level of transparency that has not only earned the confidence of the electorate but has also been acknowledged by both local and international observers.
“Contrary to the mischievous and unfounded claims made by his critics, the electoral results reflect the will of the people, a testament to the rigorous processes instituted by INEC.
“We take particular exception to the involvement of peripheral figures, such as Lawyer Anthony Ehilebo, who have emerged as hitmen for this unpatriotic project against Professor Yakubu. It is disheartening to witness individuals, driven by ulterior motives, attempting to undermine the credibility of an institution that plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our democracy.
The AYCF categorically condemned such actions and warned that those who engage in such treachery will be held accountable in the fullness of time, adding that it is crucial to recognize that the calls for the removal of Professor Yakubu are not merely an attack on an individual; they represent a broader assault on the democratic process itself.
“Such actions threaten to erode the public’s trust in electoral institutions, which is vital for the stability and progress of our nation. The AYCF implores all stakeholders, including political leaders and the citizenry, to reject these divisive tactics and instead focus on constructive dialogue that fosters unity and progress.
In a similar statement issued by Chairman NAN Salihu Suleiman on their part averred that as we navigate the complexities of our political landscape, both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu should remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the rule of law and the democratic principles that bind us as a nation, adding that the integrity of our electoral process must not be compromised by the whims of a few disenchanted individuals.
“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.
NAN called upon all Nigerians to reject the divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations that have become all too familiar in our political discourse, adding that it is essential for the public to discern between legitimate concerns and politically motivated smear campaigns.
Both groups reaffirmed their unwavering support for Professor Yakubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission called upon all Nigerians to rally behind our democratic institutions and reject any attempts to destabilize them. “Let us work together to build a Nigeria where the voices of the people are not only heard but are respected and upheld” the statements added.
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