Group Apologises to INEC Commissioner, Disowns Campaign for His Removal

A socio-cultural organisation has apologised to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioner overseeing Imo, Anambra and Ebonyi states, Ken Nnamdi Ukeagu, over the alleged use of its name in a campaign calling for his removal.

The organisation, led by Comrade Uchechukwu Obinna, expressed regret on Tuesday and distanced itself from statements and actions reportedly carried out in its name to discredit the electoral official.

It alleged that individuals sympathetic to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma had appropriated its identity to pursue political interests and undermine Ukeagu’s credibility. The organisation maintained that it neither authorised nor endorsed the campaign.

The controversy followed a reported seven-day ultimatum issued by the Pan-Igbo Youth Assembly, which demanded Ukeagu’s removal from his position as National Commissioner overseeing the three South-East states.

The group reportedly threatened to stage mass protests and occupy INEC offices across the South-East, as well as the commission’s national headquarters in Abuja, if its demand was not met. The ultimatum was announced at a press conference in Owerri on Monday, where Comrade Noble Nkem Regius reportedly addressed journalists as the organisation’s spokesperson.

However, the socio-cultural organisation has now disowned the campaign, alleging that its name was used without authorisation to advance a political agenda. It also called on INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to intervene and closely monitor the activities of the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner.

The organisation expressed concern over what it described as attempts by political interests in Imo State to compromise the independence of the electoral process. It urged INEC to ensure that electoral officials operate within the law and are protected from political pressure and partisan interference.

It warned that public confidence in the 2027 general elections could be undermined if concerns about the impartiality of electoral institutions were not properly addressed. It also called on relevant authorities to investigate the alleged misuse of its name and identify those responsible.

The organisation maintained that socio-cultural and non-governmental groups should not be used as instruments for political disputes or campaigns aimed at intimidating public officials.