ADA Registration: AYCF faults El-Rufai, Amaechi over comment on INEC
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has faulted recent comments by former Governors Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, accusing them of unfairly discrediting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the ongoing registration process of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).
In a statement issued on Friday by its President-General, Yerima Shettima, the group said it had become necessary to clarify its stance on what it described as “misleading narratives” against the electoral umpire, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Shettima noted that INEC operates within a well-defined legal and procedural framework aimed at ensuring transparency, fairness and credibility in the political process, including party registration. He described as "baseless and misleading" the claims by Amaechi and El-Rufai that INEC is frustrating opposition parties.
“The assertion made by Amaechi that INEC is intentionally obstructing the efforts of opposition parties is not only unfounded but also reflects a misunderstanding of the electoral framework that governs party registration,” Shettima stated.
He explained that INEC’s requirements—such as the submission of office addresses and identification of party officers—are standard procedures applicable to all political associations seeking registration, regardless of political leaning.
“The ADA’s inability to meet INEC’s requirements should not be misinterpreted as bias or conspiracy. It simply underscores the need for adequate preparation and compliance with established guidelines. The integrity of our democracy depends on the rules being followed,” he added.
The AYCF said it found it disappointing that the former governors resorted to what it called “sensational and inflammatory statements” instead of engaging with the regulatory process in a responsible manner.
“It is apparent that the ADA's formation is being driven by political urgency ahead of the 2027 elections. While every group has the constitutional right to seek political relevance, such efforts must align with legal and procedural expectations,” Shettima said.
The forum also dismissed the notion that INEC should lower its standards to accommodate the ADA, describing such expectations as unrealistic and dangerous to democratic principles.
“El-Rufai’s skepticism about INEC’s neutrality in registering ADA only fuels unnecessary distrust in the electoral process. It is unfortunate that some political actors now prefer to undermine public confidence in institutions rather than constructively engage with them,” the statement read.
AYCF called on political leaders, especially Amaechi and El-Rufai, to demonstrate restraint in their public utterances and promote a culture of democratic maturity, noting that inflammatory rhetoric could undermine public trust and inadvertently disenfranchise voters.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s democracy and urged all political associations, including the ADA, to respect INEC’s guidelines and approach the registration process with the seriousness and discipline it demands.