By Saad Rakiya
The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has strongly condemned the recent spate of allegations against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In a statement, Ohanaeze Ndigbo described the allegations as malicious and unfounded, and urged all stakeholders to rally in support of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
According to Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the allegations are a deliberate fabrication designed to incite chaos and destabilize the electoral landscape. He stated that the credibility and neutrality of INEC have positively improved in recent times, making it imperative for all stakeholders to support the commission.
Isiguzoro noted that the allegations are a calculated attack aimed at undermining the integrity of INEC, which is vital to the functioning of democracy in Nigeria. He described the allegations as malicious falsehoods peddled by the anti-democratic group known as the South-South Alliance, an organization allegedly manipulated and funded by unscrupulous politicians.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo denounced the campaign of calumny, identifying it as the treacherous handiwork of fifth columnists seeking to disrupt the democratic process. The organization implored INEC to dismiss the baseless accusations as distractions intentionally devised to draw attention away from their critical responsibilities.
Isiguzoro emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity of INEC at all costs, as it represents the cornerstone of Nigeria’s electoral democracy. He noted that the Nigerian populace is aware of the unfolding political drama surrounding the proposed recall of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
According to Isiguzoro, it is profoundly undemocratic for shadowy figures and obscure factions to create artificial panic through spurious allegations against INEC. He warned that such actions, if not curtailed, pose a significant risk of inciting violence that could culminate in the destruction of INEC offices and threaten the safety of its officials across the nation.
Isiguzoro expressed concern over reports of clandestine plans by unprincipled politicians to exploit the ongoing political crisis between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. He stated that such maneuvers are designed to orchestrate chaos and manipulate the public narrative surrounding Professor Yakubu and his pivotal role at INEC.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improvements in INEC’s independence, credibility, and transparency. The organization believes that the commendable initiatives undertaken by Professor Yakubu to reshape INEC for efficient electoral reform should not be undermined by orchestrated, faceless groups.
Isiguzoro emphasized the importance of supporting Professor Yakubu and his dedicated team at INEC. He called upon all Nigerians, regardless of partisan affiliation, to rise in defense of the country’s institutions, denounce falsehoods, and ensure that the integrity of INEC remains sacrosanct.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged all stakeholders to unite in their shared commitment to uphold the democratic principles that bind Nigeria as a nation. The organization emphasized the need for collective action to protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterated its commitment to supporting INEC and promoting democratic principles in Nigeria. The organization urged all Nigerians to join hands in defending the country’s democratic institutions and promoting a peaceful and credible electoral process.
South South Times . 