The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has dissociated itself from allegations of anti-democratic actions levelled against the governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal.
A report titled; “Zamfara: Gov Lawal Under Fire Over Alleged Anti-Democratic Actions Against Assembly Members,” published by some media platforms (Not Leadership) is credited to a group led by one Ibrahim Yakubu, who claimed to represent the Centre for Democracy and Development.
But at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the CDD-West Africa Director, Dr Dauda Garuba, said the organisation does not know, recognise, or has any connection with Ibrahim Yakubu or the group claiming to speak on behalf of CDD-West Africa in the referenced article.
“While we fully respect the right of individuals and groups to freedom of speech and association, as a respected think tank, we categorically state that this group is in no way affiliated with the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa).
“Our organisation, with its headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, is a non-partisan think tank with a longstanding commitment to rigorous research, evidence-based advocacy, and the promotion of democratic governance and development across West Africa,” he said.
Garuba recalled that CDD-West Africa had firmly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as an extreme measure that undermined democratic processes.
He said it is therefore, inconsistent and entirely false to suggest that the same centre would now support a state of emergency in Zamfara State, adding that CDD-West Africa remains committed to principled, democratic governance and rejects any attempts to misrepresent its stance.
“This impersonation is misleading and unacceptable as it misrepresents our mission and undermines public trust. We are considering legal and regulatory steps to address this issue while we engage with relevant authorities to protect our institutional identity.
“We also urge media outlets and the public to verify the authenticity of any statements attributed to the Centre for Democracy and Development. Official CDD-West Africa communications are issued exclusively through our verified platforms and bear the signature of our leadership or authorised spokespersons.
“We unequivocally dissociate ourselves from the comments and claims made by the impostor group and therefore caution against giving them any legitimacy,” he added.
