The United Nigerians in Diaspora (UND) has resolved to embark on an advocacy march to the United States (U.S) Embassy as well as the British High Commission in Abuja to protest against the recent visa ban on Tuesday 19th of March, 2024.
The group in a statement by the National Secretary, Mohammed Hussein are also demanding for the immediate sack or resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu over alleged corruption and irregularities during the 2023 general elections in the country.
It also called for the resignation or impeachment of the Senate President, Sen Godswill Akpabio over alleged N3.7 trillion budget padding, giving him 48 hours to resign and face immediate prosecution. Failing to do so, they called on members of the Senate to initiate impeachment proceedings against him, citing incapacity, corruption, and collision with the executive arm of the government.
The National Secretary of UND, Comrade Mohammed Hussein, stated this in a separate letter addressed on Wednesday to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery and the Chargé D’ Affairs, U.S Embassy in Abuja, Mr. David Greene.
“We, the UND (UNITED NIGERIANS IN THE DIASPORA), are writing to bring to your attention the recent developments regarding Mallam Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). We have come across so many irregularities and corruption cases against the INEC Chairman hence we insist he Resign Or Be Disgraced Out Of Office.
“We shall embark on an advocacy March on Tuesday 19th of March, 2024 in Kano, Port Harcourt, Lagos and your Embassy/High Commission at Abuja to press home our demands
“As concerned citizens who value democracy, transparency, and accountability, we deem it necessary to raise our voices against any form of corruption or malpractice within government institutions. The allegations against Mallam Yakubu are deeply troubling and cause us great concern for the integrity of the Nigerian electoral process.
“We urge the UK High Commission and the US Embassy in Abuja to take serious note of these allegations and to initiate an investigation into the matter. It is essential that the reputation and credibility of INEC are maintained, as the free and fair electoral process is fundamental to a functioning democracy. Therefore, we implore the High Commission to use its influence and resources to ensure that this issue is thoroughly addressed and resolved. Mallam Mahmood Yakubu must be placed on visa ban to US, UK, EU States, UAE and other Countries.
“Additionally, we call upon the Embassy and the UK High Commission to closely monitor the situation to protect the human rights and personal safety of all parties involved. Given the sensitive nature of this issue and the potential for backlash and intimidation, it is crucial that appropriate security measures are taken and that those carrying out their duties diligently, are safeguarded from any harm or harassment.
“In conclusion, we believe that it is in the best interest of Nigeria and its people to have a transparent, credible, and accountable electoral process. We trust that the UK High Commission and the U.S Embassy, as a steadfast advocate for democracy, will utilize its influence to support the pursuit of justice and the protection of democratic institutions in Nigeria.
“Thank you for considering our petition and for your commitment to upholding democratic values.
