The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) strongly condemns the divisive rhetoric propagated by the ReformINEC and SackYakubu movement. While we uphold every Nigerian’s right to express their views, the actions and statements of this movement are counterproductive and threaten the foundations of our democracy.
Under the leadership of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has achieved significant progress in Nigeria’s electoral system. Innovations like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and electronic result transmission have enhanced transparency and minimized electoral malpractice. While no system is without flaws, portraying INEC as irreparably compromised undermines the progress made and weakens public trust in our democratic institutions.
The call to remove Professor Yakubu is a misguided attempt to discredit INEC’s leadership and destabilize its institutional integrity. Democracy thrives on strong institutions, not on populist campaigns aimed at undermining them. Reforms are essential, but they must be pursued responsibly, through constructive dialogue and collaboration, rather than inflammatory protests and baseless accusations.
The NDYC warns that replacing INEC’s leadership at this critical juncture would create confusion and jeopardize future elections. ReformINEC’s demands lack practical foresight, risking the rollback of advancements in electoral transparency. Such actions could polarize Nigerians along political and ethnic lines, eroding the unity we need to tackle national challenges effectively.
We urge all Nigerians to channel grievances through established legal and institutional mechanisms. Constructive criticism and evidence-based advocacy are the cornerstones of meaningful reform—not divisive narratives. At a time when unity is paramount, sowing discord under the guise of reform does a disservice to our nation.
The NDYC reaffirms its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s democracy, fostering transparency, and promoting national development. We call on all Nigerians to reject unfounded narratives and work together to strengthen our democratic institutions, ensuring fairness, justice, and unity for all.