By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) have lauded President Bola Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their firm stance on accountability in the dismissal of three suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from Adamawa, Sokoto, and Abia states.

The groups in separate statements said, they believed that such a decision was a bold step towards restoring public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process and promoting ethical conduct among election officials and applauded President Tinubu’s request to the Senate to terminate the appointments of the suspended RECs.

The group stated that the suspension aligned with constitutional oversight provisions which demonstrated a commitment to upholding electoral integrity.

AYCF in its statement signed by the President General ,Yerima Shettima said, the forum acknowledged INEC’s efforts in upholding electoral integrity, citing the recent conviction of a REC for electoral fraud during the 2019 elections as a significant victory against election malpractice.

According to Shettima, the successful prosecution sets an important precedent and sends a strong message to those who seek to compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

He added that by holding individuals accountable for their actions, the confidence in the electoral system will be restored, and citizens can have faith in the fairness and transparency of future elections.

He urged other stakeholders, such as the Directorate of State Security (DSS), the Police, other security agencies, and political parties, to follow suit by enforcing internal disciplinary measures against individuals who engage in misconduct during elections.

“This call for accountability extends beyond electoral officials and emphasizes the importance of all parties involved in the electoral process upholding ethical standards and conducting themselves with integrity. By working together to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a stronger democracy for the nation as a whole”.

NAN in its statement signed by the Chairman, Salihu Suleiman acknowledged the complexity of disciplinary processes within INEC and expressed appreciation for the time it took for the suspended RECs to be dismissed.NAN stated that it also recognizes that adherence to due process is essential in maintaining the credibility of the electoral system and ensuring that decisions are made fairly and transparently.

“By taking time to investigate and follow proper procedures, INEC demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its operations, which is crucial for building public trust in the electoral process.

“Adherence to due process ensures that actions taken are justified and transparent. This, in turn, reinforces the credibility of the electoral system, as decisions are based on established norms and legal frameworks rather than arbitrary judgment.”

“Moving forward, the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders can play a significant role in consolidating democracy in Nigeria. Ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections is a shared responsibility” Suleiman stated.

The Northern groups expressed solidarity with INEC and President Tinubu in their efforts to promote accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process and called on all Nigerians to support such initiatives and work towards building a stronger democracy for the nation.

They said while holding individuals accountable for their actions, enforcing ethical standards, and upholding the principles of transparency and integrity, stakeholders can contribute to the establishment of a fair and inclusive electoral system that serves the interests of all citizens.

The groups explained that the conviction of a REC for electoral fraud further reflected the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions during the electoral process, adding that such legal actions signal to the public and potential offenders that ethical violations will have consequences.

“The relationship between accountability and integrity is crucial for enhancing the legitimacy of electoral results and the overall democratic environment in Nigeria, they stated.