The Arewa Youth Council, Middle Belt, and Ohanaeze youths have issued a joint warning against attempts to intimidate or discredit Dr. Ken Nnamdi Ukeagu, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioner overseeing Imo, Anambra, and Ebonyi states. They emphasized that such actions must cease to ensure national unity and democratic stability. The warning comes amid concerns about the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
The socio-cultural youth groups expressed confidence in the leadership of INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, and the commission's capacity to conduct credible, transparent, and peaceful elections in 2027. They noted that Nigeria's democracy can only thrive when electoral officials are allowed to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation or political pressure.
The groups' position follows a statement attributed to the Ohanaeze Youth Forum, which raised concerns about Ukeagu's credibility, alleging partisanship. However, the youth representatives dissociated themselves from attempts to use socio-cultural organisations' names to advance political interests or undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The youth groups stressed that allegations against public officials must be supported by credible evidence and addressed through institutional channels, rather than inflammatory statements or personal attacks. They declared that no individual or political group should be allowed to intimidate or malign electoral officials due to political disagreements or unsubstantiated allegations.
The groups called on supporters of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and other political actors to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could escalate tensions or create divisions ahead of the 2027 elections. They emphasized that the credibility of the electoral process is a collective responsibility requiring cooperation among stakeholders.
The youth representatives expressed confidence in Professor Amupitan's leadership of INEC and urged Nigerians to support efforts to strengthen the commission's independence, transparency, and institutional credibility. They emphasized that the 2027 elections should be approached with a commitment to peace, fairness, and respect for democratic institutions.
The groups reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful democratic participation and called on Nigerians, particularly young people, to reject political intimidation and support a credible electoral process. They concluded that Nigeria deserves credible elections, responsible political leadership, and an electoral umpire whose work is judged by evidence, due process, and the law.
Key points
- Arewa, Middle Belt, and Ohanaeze youths warn against intimidation of INEC National Commissioner Dr. Ken Ukeagu.
- Youth groups express confidence in INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan's leadership and the commission's capacity to conduct credible elections.
- The groups emphasize the need for national unity, democratic stability, and a credible electoral process in Nigeria.
