AYCF condemns planned nationwide protests against INEC Chairman

From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed its firm condemnation of the planned nationwide protests organized by the “ReformINEC and SackYakubu” Movement, scheduled to commence in Abuja on December 5, 2024.
AYCF, in a statement by its President General Yerima Shettima, said the protest is viewed as an attempt by saboteurs and enemies of the state to undermine the democratic process and destabilize our nation.
“It is disheartening to see a segment of the youth population being misled by groups that seek to further their agendas under the guise of reform.
“The integrity of our electoral system is paramount, and attacking the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, without substantive evidence is not only unwarranted but also counterproductive to the democratic values we strive to uphold.
“We call upon the youth of Nigeria to disregard these divisive calls. Engaging in protests that threaten to incite chaos and instability serves only to undermine the progress we have made as a nation. Our focus should remain on constructive dialogue and collaboration to address any legitimate grievances, rather than resorting to actions that may lead to national discord.
“Furthermore, we urge the government and relevant authorities to take appropriate measures to dissuade dissent rooted in misinformation and to protect the country from any group seeking to exploit the youth for their selfish motives.”