ADC Slams Tinubu’s Ambassadorial Nomination of Ex-INEC Chair as “Embarrassing, Insensitive”

Abuja, Nigeria – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent nomination of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the immediate past chairman of the Independent National Electoral 

Commission (INEC), as an ambassador. The party described the move as both “embarrassing and insensitive,” arguing that it undermines public trust and raises serious questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

In a statement released earlier today, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Ambassador Musa Kawu, expressed the party’s dismay, stating that such a nomination, coming on the heels of a highly contentious general election, sends the wrong message to Nigerians and the international community.

“This nomination is not just an error in judgment; it is a blatant disregard for the feelings of millions of Nigerians who are still grappling with the outcomes of the last election,” Kawu asserted. 

“Professor Yakubu’s tenure at INEC was marred by widespread allegations of irregularities, technical glitches, and a perceived lack of transparency. 

To reward him with an ambassadorial position now is to rub salt in the wounds of a nation that is desperate for credible leadership and electoral reform.”

The ADC highlighted several concerns that have been consistently raised about the 2023 general elections under Professor Yakubu’s leadership, including the failure of the INEC IReV portal to transmit results in real-time as promised, which led to significant delays and fueled suspicions of manipulation.

“An ambassadorial role demands impeccable integrity and the unwavering trust of the people,” Kawu continued. 

“How can a former electoral umpire, whose stewardship left so many questions unanswered, effectively represent Nigeria on the global stage? 

This decision by President Tinubu is not only an embarrassment to our nation but also a deep insult to the intelligence of Nigerians.”

The party called on President Tinubu to immediately withdraw the nomination, urging him to prioritize national healing and the restoration of faith in democratic institutions. 

The ADC emphasized that true reconciliation and progress can only be achieved when justice is seen to be done, particularly in matters as fundamental as electoral integrity.

“The international community is watching,” Kawu warned. “Nigeria’s democratic credentials are under scrutiny. 

This nomination only serves to reinforce negative perceptions and further erode confidence in our commitment to free and fair elections. 

We implore President Tinubu to reconsider and choose individuals who truly embody the values of transparency, accountability, and public service.”

The ADC’s strong condemnation adds to a growing chorus of voices expressing concern over the nomination, indicating that this issue is likely to generate significant debate and controversy in the coming days.