COSEYL backs INEC, Ukeagu, plans solidarity rallies across South-East

From Jude Chinedu, Enugu

The Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has passed a vote of confidence on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, and National Commissioner, Dr Ken Ukeagu, dismissing calls for the latter’s removal as baseless.

The organisation also announced plans to organise solidarity rallies across the five South-East states and Abuja to demonstrate support for INEC’s leadership and its preparations for the 2027 general elections.

COSEYL, in a statement signed by its President-General, Goodluck Ibem, and Publicity Secretary, Okey Nwaoru, said the campaign against Ukeagu was driven by political interests and lacked credible evidence.

The group was reacting to a statement by another group reportedly demanding Ukeagu’s removal over allegations bordering on the alleged leakage of confidential electoral documents, partisan associations and electoral consultancy arrangements.

Describing Ukeagu as a man of integrity and professional discipline, COSEYL said his reputation should not be subjected to what it called trial by media and orchestrated public condemnation.

It challenged those making allegations against the INEC commissioner to present verifiable evidence through appropriate channels rather than resort to public intimidation and sensationalism.

“Allegations must be substantiated, evidence must be presented, and every individual is entitled to the presumption of innocence and a fair opportunity to respond,” the statement said.

The organisation also warned against attempts by pressure groups to influence the administrative decisions of INEC through threats of protests and occupation of its offices.

“INEC must be allowed to function independently, professionally and without intimidation from any political pressure group,” it said.

COSEYL expressed confidence in Amupitan’s leadership, saying the commission should remain focused on its constitutional responsibilities and preparations for credible, free, fair and transparent elections in 2027.

It said the planned rallies would be peaceful and orderly, stressing that they were intended to demonstrate solidarity with the electoral body and Ukeagu rather than provoke confrontation.

The group also maintained that no organisation could claim exclusive authority to speak for the entire Igbo youth population.

“The South-East is home to millions of young people with diverse political opinions, democratic convictions and aspirations. Their voices cannot be reduced to the position of any single organisation or group,” it said.

While describing its support for INEC as principled rather than unconditional, COSEYL urged the commission’s officials to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

“We stand with INEC. We stand with Professor Joash Amupitan. We stand with Dr Ken Ukeagu,” the group declared.