The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has strongly condemned calls for the removal of Professor Mahmood Yakubu from office as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement a by YYC President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the group described the calls as ill-motivated, baseless, and detrimental to Nigeria’s national interest.
According to Oluwole, the timing of the calls, just days before the 2024 Ondo State governorship election, raised concerns about possible political motives.
“It’s troubling that calls for Prof. Yakubu’s removal seem to arise repeatedly whenever an election is near, creating unnecessary tension and appearing calculated to disrupt the stability of the electoral process,” Oluwole said.
“The YYC is particularly disturbed by the hashtag #YakubuMustGo trending on social media, viewing it as an unfounded attack on Prof. Yakubu’s integrity and an attempt to undermine INEC’s leadership.”
“Such agitation against him is orchestrated by individuals who do not have Nigeria’s best interests at heart,” Oluwole added.
He noted that Prof. Yakubu has demonstrated exemplary leadership, showcasing unwavering commitment to impartiality, accountability, and transparency.
He noted that Yakubu’s reforms have fortified global confidence in Nigeria’s democracy, guiding the nation toward a stronger democratic path.
The YYC, therefore, passed a vote of confidence in Prof. Yakubu’s leadership, recognising his commitment to peaceful elections and reduced election-related violence. The council called on patriotic Nigerians to appreciate the progress made in democracy under Prof. Yakubu’s stewardship and reject the unfounded attacks on him.
“We remain resolute in our support for Prof. Yakubu’s exemplary service to Nigeria and reject any attempts to destabilize INEC under his leadership,” Oluwole concluded.
