Researched By Araba, Olawale Enifenilanfe:
The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed its commendation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding their decisive actions concerning accountability in the dismissal of three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states.
In a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF asserted that this decision represents a bold initiative aimed at restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process and promoting ethical conduct among election officials. The forum praised President Tinubu’s request to the Senate for the termination of the appointments of the suspended RECs, noting that this aligns with constitutional oversight provisions and exemplifies a commitment to maintaining electoral integrity.
Furthermore, the AYCF acknowledged INEC’s efforts to uphold electoral integrity, specifically highlighting the recent conviction of Professor Ignatius Uduk in Akwa Ibom State for electoral fraud during the 2019 elections as a significant triumph in the fight against electoral malpractice. Shettima emphasized that such successful prosecutions establish important precedents and convey a strong message to individuals who might compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral framework. By holding individuals accountable for their actions, confidence in the electoral system can be restored, thereby enabling citizens to trust in the fairness and transparency of forthcoming elections.
The AYCF also called upon other stakeholders, including the Directorate of State Security (DSS), the Police, various security agencies, and political parties, to implement internal disciplinary measures against individuals who engage in misconduct during elections. “This call for accountability extends beyond electoral officials, underscoring the necessity for all parties involved in the electoral process to maintain ethical standards and conduct themselves with integrity. A collaborative effort to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria is essential for the establishment of a robust democracy for the nation collectively,” Shettima stated.
The AYCF recognizes the complexities associated with disciplinary processes within INEC and appreciates the time taken for the suspended RECs to be dismissed. The forum acknowledges that adherence to due process is vital for maintaining the credibility of the electoral system and ensuring that decisions are reached fairly and transparently. By prioritizing thorough investigations and proper procedures, INEC affirms its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its operations, which is critical for fostering public trust in the electoral process.
In conclusion, Shettima emphasized that the AYCF stands in solidarity with INEC and President Tinubu in their endeavours to promote accountability and transparency within Nigeria’s electoral framework, while also urging all Nigerians to support these initiatives to contribute to the strengthening of democracy in the nation. “By ensuring accountability for individual actions, enforcing ethical standards, and upholding principles of transparency and integrity, stakeholders can facilitate the establishment of a fair and inclusive electoral system that serves the interests of all citizens,” Shettima reiterated.
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