Says removal demand threatens institutional independence, urges Nigerians to defend democratic principles
By Chinonso Okoye | Abuja
November 4, 2026
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice, in collaboration with the Coalition of Renewed Hope, has rejected the seven-day ultimatum reportedly issued by the Pan-Igbo Youth Assembly (PIYA) demanding the removal of Mr. Ken Nnamdi Ukeagu, an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioner overseeing Imo, Anambra and Ebonyi states.
The coalition described the demand as an attempt to intimidate a constitutionally established national institution and warned against actions capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing a world press conference at the NUJ Press Centre, Utako, Abuja, on Tuesday, November 4, 2026, the coalition maintained that no ethnic, political or pressure group possesses the constitutional authority to compel the removal of an INEC National Commissioner through ultimatums.
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS ON REMOVAL
The coalition cited Sections 154(1) and 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, noting that INEC Commissioners are appointed through constitutionally prescribed procedures and can only be removed in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
It stressed that Section 157(1) specifically provides for the removal of INEC Commissioners by the President acting on an address supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate on grounds of inability to discharge their functions or misconduct.
According to the coalition, any attempt to secure the removal of a National Commissioner through public ultimatums rather than established constitutional procedures is unacceptable.
QUESTIONS OVER PIYA’S REPRESENTATION
The coalition also questioned the authority of the Pan-Igbo Youth Assembly to speak on behalf of the entire Igbo population, alleging that the group’s actions may be politically motivated.
It challenged the organisation to provide verifiable evidence supporting its allegations against Ukeagu rather than resorting to public campaigns and demands for his removal.
The coalition further urged the public to distinguish between legitimate expressions of concern and attempts by interest groups to create unnecessary tension around the electoral commission.
UKEAGU DESERVES FAIR HEARING
Describing Ukeagu as a competent administrator with an established record of public service, the coalition maintained that he deserves fairness and due process.
It argued that public officers should not be subjected to campaigns for removal without credible evidence or an opportunity to respond to allegations against them.
The coalition insisted that the INEC Commissioner was appointed to serve the country and should be assessed on the basis of his official responsibilities and performance rather than ethnic considerations.
CALL TO NIGERIANS TO REJECT THE ULTIMATUM
The coalition called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, the media, students, market women, civil society organisations and other well-meaning Nigerians to reject the demand for Ukeagu’s removal.
It maintained that the controversy does not serve the interests of Ndigbo, the South-East or Nigeria, warning that allowing pressure groups to dictate the removal of public officers could set a dangerous precedent.
The coalition further cautioned that unnecessary distractions could undermine INEC’s preparations for the 2027 general elections under the leadership of its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN.
SOLIDARITY WITH OTHER GROUPS
The coalition said its position aligns with that of other organisations, including the Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the Igbo Lawyers Union and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), which it said had expressed concerns about the demand for Ukeagu’s removal.
It also referenced comments attributed to INEC Deputy Director, Mr. Wilfred Ifogah, regarding the Commission’s position on the allegations.
COALITION’S RESOLUTIONS
Following its deliberations, the coalition announced the following resolutions:
- It rejects and condemns the seven-day ultimatum reportedly issued by PIYA against Mr. Ken Nnamdi Ukeagu.
- It calls on INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, and the Commission’s leadership to remain focused on their constitutional responsibilities and resist undue external pressure.
- It urges the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force to investigate any credible allegations of threats to public peace arising from the controversy, in accordance with the law.
- It calls on Ohanaeze Ndigbo, South-East governors and other Igbo leaders to clarify their positions on the activities of the group and ensure that no organisation makes unsubstantiated claims in the name of Ndigbo.
- It passes a Vote of Absolute Confidence in Mr. Ken Nnamdi Ukeagu and expresses support for the leadership of INEC.
- It warns that failure by PIYA to withdraw its ultimatum within 48 hours could prompt the coalition to mobilise over 5,000 supporters across the 36 states of the federation for a peaceful solidarity march to INEC Headquarters in Abuja.
The coalition concluded by urging Nigerians to defend democratic institutions, respect constitutional provisions and reject attempts to intimidate public institutions through threats and ultimatums.
It maintained that INEC is a national institution belonging to all Nigerians and must be allowed to discharge its responsibilities without intimidation or undue political interference.
“We stand for peace, security, good governance, equity and justice.”
God bless Nigeria.
