Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka has officially dissociated himself from recent protests targeting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing media reports linking him to the demonstrations as false, baseless, and misleading.
The clarification was contained in an official statement signed by his Head of Media and Public Communications, Prince Tijani Dauda, and made available to newsmen. The statement was issued in direct response to a publication by a group identifying as the “Igala Vanguard,” authored by one Engr. Lawrence Ankpa, which accused Ajaka of involvement in the action.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka did not authorize, sponsor, direct, commission or coordinate the protest,” the statement read.
Dauda stated that attributing the actions of independent citizens to Ajaka is a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and unfairly drag his name into an issue with which he has no connection.
While defending the constitutional rights of citizens to engage in peaceful assembly, Ajaka’s media team noted that Igala youths do not require the permission or sponsorship of any political figure to assemble and express concerns regarding their representation and future. The statement questioned the rationale behind automatically linking independent civic actions to Ajaka.
Furthermore, the statement accused unnamed political actors and groups of utilizing fictitious platforms and pseudo-identities to engage in character assassination, political manipulation, and the spread of unsubstantiated allegations. It warned those operating behind these entities to immediately cease using Ajaka’s name for propaganda and manufactured controversies, challenging anyone with genuine grievances to come forward openly with verifiable evidence.
Addressing his stance on the electoral body, Ajaka clarified that he holds the Chairman of INEC and the entire Commission in high esteem. The statement reaffirmed his respect for the constitutional responsibilities entrusted to the leadership of INEC, expressing confidence that the Commission will continue to discharge its duties with fairness, professionalism, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
The statement concluded by urging members of the public and the media to completely disregard the false attributions and remain guided by the facts.
