Diaspora group passes vote of confidence on INEC chair, Yakubu

…Urges UK Prime Minister, Sunak to intervene

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

A diaspora group, Nigerians in Diaspora for Good Governance, NDGG, United Kingdom Chapter, Friday, unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu.

This was contained in a letter addressed to the Prime Minister of UK, and signed by Director, Information and Strategy, Obinna Nwachukwu, where they urged the UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, to intervene publicly over what they described as baseless accusations levied against Prof Yakubu.

The Letter reads in part: “We, the NIGERIANS IN DIASPORA FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE (UK CHAPTER), are deeply concerned about the malicious attack on Mallam Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). We strongly condemn the allegations made against him by faceless individuals, including the call for his resignation or removal from office. Hence we want to pass a vote of Confidence on him

“It is disheartening to witness such baseless accusations being levied against a man who has tirelessly served our country in ensuring free and fair elections. Mallam Yakubu has demonstrated utmost professionalism, integrity, and dedication in his role as the INEC Chair. The allegations made against him lack transparency and credibility, as they come from anonymous sources.

“We urge you, dear Prime Minister Sunak, to intervene in this matter and publicly support Mallam Yakubu. As the Prime Minister of the UK, your voice carries great weight and influence. It is crucial that you defend the integrity of the Nigerian democratic processes and the officials entrusted with their execution.”

Meanwhile, the group in the letter also appealed to the Prime Minister “to investigate the origin of these false allegations and hold accountable those responsible for attempting to tarnish the reputation of Mallam Yakubu and the INEC. Nigerian democracy relies on public trust, and it is essential to eradicate any attempts to undermine this trust.

“We, the undersigned, stand in solidarity with Mallam Mahmood Yakubu and demand an immediate end to the malicious attacks against him. We implore you to reach, President Tinubu, to take swift action to ensure justice is served.”