Diaspora Group Demands INEC Chairman's Resignation Over Electoral Trust Crisis
Nigerians in Diaspora for Good Governance Organization has issued a forceful call for the immediate and honorable resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan. The group cites a severe erosion of public trust in the electoral body as the primary reason for this demand.
Credibility Compromised, Trust Lost
Dr. Raymond Edoh, the Global President of the organization, stated that the credibility of the INEC Chief has been critically compromised, leading to a significant loss of trust among the electorate. He made these remarks during a world press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday, focusing on the State of the Nation’s Democracy.
Edoh emphasized that "The credibility of our electoral system rests heavily on the integrity and impartiality of its leadership." He continued, "Therefore, we call on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission to honorably resign from office in the interest of restoring public trust, safeguarding the institution, and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy."
He warned that this call is necessitated by an urgent need to rebuild confidence in electoral processes, which many citizens now view with deep skepticism and doubt.
Alarm Over Democratic Backsliding
Beyond the electoral umpire, Edoh raised a serious alarm over what he described as a systematic attempt by the incumbent administration to stifle political opposition and transition Nigeria toward a one-party state. He specifically pointed to internal friction within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that Senator David Mark remains the party’s legitimate leader.
"We are deeply concerned by clear and troubling signals that suggest an attempt by the incumbent government to steer Nigeria toward a one-party system," the group stated. "Such a path is not only dangerous, it is a direct betrayal of the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians who fought for the democratic freedoms we enjoy today."
Call to Presidential Leadership
Edoh called on President and Commander-in-Chief Bola Tinubu to act as a statesman and protect the democratic principles that facilitated his own rise to power. He asserted, "As President and father of the nation, he must stand for truth and uphold the democratic principles that brought him into office. He must ensure that democracy in Nigeria is strengthened, not weakened, under his leadership. This is a defining test of statesmanship."
Warning of Youth Action and International Appeal
The diaspora group leader further warned that if INEC and the government fail to uphold constitutional order, the nation’s youth are prepared to take to the streets in a nationwide peaceful protest. "Under my leadership, we will not allow the erosion of democracy in Nigeria, not on my watch! The right thing must be done. Nigeria must be known for respect for the rule of law, not politically motivated decisions," he declared.
He also appealed to international bodies, including the United Nations, the European Union, and the United States Government, to monitor political developments in Nigeria closely and support the defense of human rights and the rule of law.
This demand from the diaspora group highlights growing concerns about electoral integrity and democratic stability in Nigeria, with calls for immediate action to restore trust and prevent further erosion of democratic norms.
