AYCF Slams Fake News on INEC Chairman Replacement

By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has vehemently condemned the recent spate of rumors alleging the replacement of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu. In a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, the group described such claims as "fake and mischievous," aimed at sowing discord and confusion within Nigeria's political landscape.

"We are in a time when Nigeria is striving for unity and progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership," Shettima said. "The dissemination of such baseless rumors serves no purpose other than to undermine the credibility of our democratic institutions." The AYCF urges all citizens to recognize these fabrications as attempts by detractors to destabilize the current administration and distract from its agenda of governance and national development.

Shettima emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the electoral process, stating, "The INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has been at the forefront of ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria. Any attempt to disrupt this process is an affront to the democratic principles we hold dear." The AYCF warned those behind these malicious rumors to desist immediately, citing the detrimental impact on the collective aspirations of the Nigerian people.

The group implored citizens and political actors to allow President Tinubu's administration to function smoothly, focusing on policies and initiatives that foster national growth and development. Shettima also urged the public to remain vigilant and discerning when consuming information regarding government appointments and decisions, emphasizing the need to rely on official announcements from credible sources.

"In this digital age, where misinformation spreads rapidly, it is essential to rely on official announcements from credible sources," he said. "Any news regarding changes in the leadership of INEC or other significant political developments should only be trusted if it comes from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) or other verified official channels."

The AYCF called upon all Nigerians to stand together against the forces of misinformation and support the efforts of their leaders in building a prosperous future for the country. The President General reaffirmed the forum's commitment to advocating for the interests of the youth and the broader Arewa community, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.