CDD dissociates from group falsely claiming its identity, attacking politicians

The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has debunked a media publication titled “Zamfara:: Lawal Under Fire Over Alleged Anti-Democratic Actions Against Assembly Members,” under its identity. Dr. Dauda Garuba, the Director, CDD-West Africa, said this on Tuesday in Abuja in a statement. He said that the article attributes statements to a group led […]

The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has debunked a media publication titled “Zamfara:: Lawal Under Fire Over Alleged Anti-Democratic Actions Against Assembly Members,” under its identity.

Dr. Dauda Garuba, the Director, CDD-West Africa, said this on Tuesday in Abuja in a statement.

He said that the article attributes statements to a group led by one Ibrahim Yakubu, who claims to represent the Centre for Democracy and Development.

“While we fully respect the right of individuals and groups to freedom of speech and association, as a respected think tank, we categorically state that this group is in no way affiliated with the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa).

“Our organization, with its headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, is a non-partisan think tank with a longstanding commitment to rigorous research, evidence-based advocacy, and the promotion of democratic governance and development across West Africa.

“The Centre for Democracy and Development is currently led by Dr. Dauda Garuba. We do not know, recognize, or have any connection with Ibrahim Yakubu or the group claiming to speak on behalf of CDD West Africa in the referenced article,” he said.

Dauda said that this impersonation is misleading and unacceptable, as it misrepresents the CDD-West Africa mission and undermines public trust.

He said, “We are considering regulatory steps to address this issue and are engaging with relevant authorities to protect our institutional identity. We also urge media outlets and the public to verify the authenticity of any statements attributed to the CDD-West Africa. The CDD-West Africa communications are issued exclusively through our verified platforms and bear the signature of our leadership or authorized spokespersons.

“We unequivocally dissociate ourselves from the comments and claims made by the impostor group and caution against giving them any legitimacy,” Garuba said.