AYCF Slams El-Rufai, Amaechi Over “Baseless” Accusations Against INEC on ADA Registration

By Adagbo Ebije

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has faulted statements made by former Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, suggesting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is frustrating the registration of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).

The forum, in a statement issued by its President General, Yerima Shettima, said it became necessary to clarify AYCF’s position regarding the allegations against INEC’s purported obstruction of opposition political parties, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Firstly, it is essential to recognize that the electoral process in Nigeria is governed by established procedures that are designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability. 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 stressed that INEC’s requirements — such as submission of verifiable office addresses and identification of party officers — are standard procedures that apply to all political associations seeking registration. According to Shettima, it is critical that parties like the ADA comply with these procedures to maintain the credibility of the nation’s democratic process.

“The AYCF finds it disheartening that, in their frustration, Amaechi and the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, have resorted to making sensational claims rather than addressing the substantive issues at hand.

“The ADA’s challenges in meeting INEC’s requirements should not be attributed to any alleged bias or conspiracy on the part of the commission. Instead, it is a reflection of the need for all political parties to engage in diligent preparation and adherence to the rules that govern our electoral landscape.”

Shettima further argued that the hasty formation of ADA appears more driven by desperation and urgency than by methodical planning, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. While acknowledging the right of any political group to seek legitimacy, he emphasized that such efforts must align with INEC’s legal and procedural framework.

“The notion that INEC should compromise its standards to accommodate the ADA is not only impractical but also undermines the principles of democracy that we strive to uphold,” Shettima added.

He took particular exception to El-Rufai’s public doubts about INEC’s willingness to register the ADA, saying such remarks feed into a dangerous trend where political figures erode public confidence in electoral institutions.

“El-Rufai’s skepticism regarding INEC’s willingness to register the ADA further illustrates a growing trend among political leaders to cast doubt on the electoral process rather than engaging constructively with it. Such rhetoric can be detrimental to the democratic ethos and may inadvertently disenfranchise the very constituents these leaders claim to represent.

“It is crucial for political leaders to foster an environment of trust and cooperation with electoral bodies, rather than perpetuating narratives of mistrust and conspiracy.”

AYCF urged political leaders like Amaechi and El-Rufai to demonstrate restraint in their public commentary and to prioritize building a political culture grounded in institutional respect.

“The future of our democracy depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and to work within the established frameworks to achieve their political aspirations,” the statement concluded.

The AYCF reaffirmed its commitment to a free, fair, and transparent electoral process and called on all parties — including ADA — to respect INEC’s rules and approach the registration process with due diligence.

ENDS