Socio-cultural groups, Arewa Youths Forum and Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Youth Movement, have passed a vote of confidence on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, expressing strong support for his leadership and commitment to electoral integrity.
The groups noted that while citizens reserve the right to peaceful protest, the recent demonstration by some UK-based Nigerians at the UK Parliament calling for the removal of Prof. Amupitan was premature, misinformed, and not reflective of the broader national interest.
UK-based Nigerians had staged a protest demanding the removal of Prof. Amupitan, alleging partisanship and citing supposed ties to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The protesters called for the appointment of what they described as a non-partisan figure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting, the youth groups, in a joint statement signed by Anderson Achilike, Monday in Abuja, described the allegations as unsubstantiated and urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to allow the INEC Chairman the space to carry out his constitutional responsibilities without undue pressure or politicisation.
According to the statement, “Prof. Amupitan has not taken any action since his appointment that justifies the level of suspicion and opposition being orchestrated in some quarters. We believe in the sanctity of due process and the need to judge public officials based on performance, not speculation.”
They further emphasized that the credibility of the 2027 elections would depend on collective responsibility, institutional independence, and adherence to the rule of law, rather than campaigns of distrust.
The groups also called on stakeholders to support INEC in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process, noting that unity and constructive engagement remain essential to national development.
“We urge all Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation or location, to prioritize national stability and democratic growth. The focus should be on supporting institutions to succeed, not undermining them through premature calls for removal,” the statement added.
