The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has strongly condemned recent calls for the removal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The YYC described these calls as baseless, ill-intentioned, and detrimental to Nigeria’s democratic stability and national progress.
The organization expressed concern over the timing of these demands, which coincide with the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State. The YYC believes this pattern of agitation, often occurring before significant elections, appears politically motivated and designed to disrupt the electoral process. Such actions, the YYC asserts, are unpatriotic and harmful to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
The council also criticized the trending hashtag #YakubuMustGo on X (formerly Twitter), labeling it an unjustified attack on Prof. Yakubu’s integrity. According to the YYC, this campaign is orchestrated by individuals whose interests run counter to Nigeria’s democratic ideals.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, the YYC noted, emphasizing his commitment to impartiality, accountability, and transparency in managing the electoral process. Under his guidance, INEC has implemented reforms that have strengthened Nigeria’s democratic institutions and bolstered global confidence in the nation’s electoral integrity.
The YYC warned that these calls for his removal threaten to reverse the significant progress made in Nigeria’s democracy under Prof. Yakubu’s stewardship. His insistence on peace accords and efforts to minimize election-related violence reflect his dedication to fostering peaceful and credible elections.
Reaffirming their support, the YYC passed a vote of confidence in Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and urged all patriotic Nigerians to stand against attempts to destabilize INEC. The organization called on citizens to recognize the substantial advancements achieved in Nigeria’s democracy under Prof. Yakubu’s leadership and reject these baseless attacks.
The Yoruba Youth Council reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic journey and applauded Prof. Yakubu’s exemplary service to the nation.