The lies by opposition parties on Amina Zakari

Indeed, Nigerians woke up in dismay this morning to the news of the postponement of the Presidential election which was earlier scheduled to hold on February 16, 2019. Nobody, save politicians, in his right senses, would applaud such decision by the INEC officials. However, going by the explanations given so far by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, […]

Indeed, Nigerians woke up in dismay this morning to the news of the postponement of the Presidential election which was earlier scheduled to hold on February 16, 2019. Nobody, save politicians, in his right senses, would applaud such decision by the INEC officials.

However, going by the explanations given so far by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, one would realise that the decision was actually taken in the best interest of democracy.

Unfortunately, instead of using the rare opportunity (of gaining more time) to further convince Nigerians about the need to be elected, some political parties have chosen to take the usual easy ride of blame games, and deliberate fabrication and dissemination of falsehood towards Amina Zakari.

It is saddening to listen to and read the press briefing by Ikenga Imo Ugochinenye of the opposition parties, speculating that the President is on the verge of sacking Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, and Madam Amina Zakari is being rooted for the INEC top job. This statement is not just untrue but also qualifies for libel and fake news combined.

Let it be noted here that, the 1999 Constitution in Section 157(1) states that “the Chairman and members of the Commission may only be removed by the President acting on an address supported by two-thirds majority of the Senate that the person be removed for inability to discharge the functions of the office (whether arising from infirmity of Mind or body or any other cause) or for misconduct”.

Therefore, going by the stipulations of the Nigerian Constitution, Mr President would on no condition key into the cheap bargains from any quarters.

And for the umpteenth time, Madam Amina Zakari, having been relegated to the background by the same outcry, is neither in charge of logistics nor interested in becoming the INEC Chairman. Instead, she remains steadfast and committed to executing her professional responsibilities according to the best practices.

Hence, on this regard, we urge all Nigerians to disregard the falsehoods being propagated and focus on the coming elections.

Comrade Muhammed Adoke, Abuja