The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) recently voiced their concerns over the statements made by politicians Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. According to a statement released by the NDYC’s National Coordinator, Israel Uwejeyan, the group criticized these remarks as
“reckless, self-serving, and politically motivated,”
aimed at undermining the credibility of INEC.
The NDYC highlighted the challenges faced by INEC during the 2023 General Elections and commended Professor Yakubu for his integrity, competence, and impartiality in overseeing a transparent electoral process. The organization emphasized the importance of safeguarding INEC’s independence and neutrality to uphold democracy in Nigeria.
“We must remind Nigerians that INEC is a national institution whose credibility must not be sacrificed at the altar of individual ambition,”
stated the NDYC. They praised Professor Yakubu for withstanding pressures and attacks while ensuring fair elections. The group called on all stakeholders to support INEC in fulfilling its mandate without interference or manipulation.
In their statement, the NDYC urged Amaechi and El-Rufai to refrain from jeopardizing democratic institutions for personal gain. They emphasized that political ambitions should not come at the expense of institutional integrity.
“The Nigerian people deserve an electoral umpire free from intimidation and manipulation by disgruntled politicians,”
noted the group.
Furthermore, the NDYC expressed confidence in INEC’s leadership under Professor Yakubu’s guidance. They encouraged Nigerians to recognize attempts by certain individuals to undermine credible electoral processes for their own agendas. The organization urged citizens to stand against any actions that could threaten democracy in Nigeria.
As political tensions continue to rise ahead of future elections, it is imperative for leaders across party lines to prioritize national interests over personal ambitions. Upholding the integrity of institutions like INEC is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections that reflect the will of the people. The NDYC’s stance serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect democracy from undue influences and partisan interests.
In conclusion, as Nigeria navigates its democratic journey, maintaining trust in electoral bodies like INEC remains paramount. Respecting institutional autonomy and supporting transparent election processes are fundamental pillars of a robust democratic system. The NDYC’s call for political leaders to respect these principles reinforces the significance of upholding democratic values amidst evolving political landscapes.
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