The Pan-Igbo Youth Assembly (PIYA) has called for the immediate removal of Ken Nnamdi Ukeagu, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioner responsible for Imo, Anambra and Ebonyi States, over allegations of misconduct and political bias.
The group made the demand during a press conference, warning that the allegations surrounding the commissioner’s activities could affect public confidence in the electoral body.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Noble Nkem Regius, PIYA accused Ukeagu of allegedly engaging in partisan activities and compromising the neutrality expected of an electoral official.
The organisation also alleged that the commissioner had been leaking sensitive INEC documents and confidential electoral information to politicians and opposition interests.
It maintained that electoral information belongs to the commission and should not be made available to individuals or political groups for personal or partisan purposes.
PIYA expressed concern over the controversy surrounding previous demands by the Ohanaeze Youth Forum for Ukeagu’s redeployment, insisting that the allegations required a proper investigation rather than administrative silence.
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The group further claimed that some politicians opposed to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election had repeatedly referred to their relationship with the commissioner, raising questions about his perceived neutrality.
It stressed that electoral officials must remain independent and should not be seen as having special relationships with particular political interests.
Consequently, PIYA urged INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to remove Ukeagu from his current responsibilities and establish an independent investigation into the allegations.
The group also called for an investigation into the alleged disclosure of confidential electoral documents, identification of those involved and public release of the findings.
PIYA warned that the continued controversy could undermine confidence in the electoral process as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
It threatened to mobilise millions of youths across the South-East for demonstrations and occupy INEC offices in the five South-Eastern states if the commission failed to address its demands.
The organisation, however, said any planned demonstration would be peaceful and focused on demanding accountability from the electoral body.
It also appealed to the Presidency, National Assembly, Council of State, civil society organisations, traditional rulers and religious leaders to intervene and encourage INEC to address the allegations.
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