The Civic Integrity Initiative has called on former National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairman, Chidi Odinkalu, to cease his “unrelenting campaign of calumny on media” against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
In a statement signed by its convener, Dr. Kamson Onyedikachukwu Chidubem, and sent to journalists, the group criticized Odinkalu for what it described as “biased criticisms and media abuses” aimed at discrediting Prof. Yakubu’s leadership.
The Civic Integrity Initiative stated that under Yakubu’s tenure, INEC has implemented significant reforms to improve Nigeria’s electoral process.
“Prof. Yakubu has championed unprecedented reforms that have contributed immensely to the transparency and credibility of the electoral process in Nigeria,” Dr. Chidubem stated.
He reeled out some of Yakubu’s key achievements, including the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the digitalization of election processes, and the expansion of voter access nationwide.
“These innovations have earned INEC commendations both domestically and internationally for improving the integrity of our elections,” Dr. Chidubem added.
The group accused Odinkalu of always pushing a “negative agenda” against Nigeria.
The group further stated that Odinkalu’s constant criticisms are not motivated by a desire for a working Nigeria or electoral reform but part of a plot to promote negative stories about the country while receiving funds from donor agencies.
“Odinkalu is only known for pushing divisive and detrimental stories about Nigeria, rather than championing genuine reforms that enhance our democratic process,” the statement read.
The Civic Integrity Initiative urged Odinkalu to redirect his focus towards more constructive contributions.
“We suggest he champions real reforms and policies that enhance our democratic process, rather than tearing our institutions down with unfounded criticisms and rethorics,” the group stated.
The organization further called on all well-meaning Nigerians to recognize the strides INEC has made under Prof. Yakubu’s leadership and rally behind efforts to further improve Nigeria’s democracy and electoral system.
The group concluded by reiterating its support for Prof. Yakubu and his reforms, stating, “It is time for Odinkalu to leave Prof. Yakubu alone and stop undermining the efforts of those working tirelessly to strengthen democracy in Nigeria.”
