This Sends A Strong Message!’ – APC Bigwig Backs Tinubu Over REC Sackings

Published February 9, 2025 at 4:13 PM

A leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for the dismissal of three Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) implicated in misconduct during the 2023 general elections.

The sacked Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials include Ike Uzochukwu from Abia, Hudu Yunusa-Ari from Adamawa, and Nura Ali from Sokoto.

Addressing journalists on Sunday in Osogbo, Oyintiloye also thanked the Senate for endorsing the President’s request to officially remove the suspended RECs.

He highlighted that this decisive action would act as a strong deterrent to others, enhance accountability, and rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

“I commend the President for this courageous decision to terminate the appointments of the suspended RECs. It shows his commitment to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections that Nigerians can trust.

“The dismissal of Ike Uzochukwu (Abia), Hudu Yunusa-Ari (Adamawa), and Nura Ali (Sokoto) will send a clear message to other RECs who might be tempted to engage in similar misconduct.

“The President’s pledge to combat corruption is evident in this action, and it stands as a warning to other public officials that Nigeria is moving forward,” he stated.

Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker, also applauded INEC for the disciplinary actions it took against the RECs in March 2023.

He recalled that Yunusa-Ari was suspended for unlawfully declaring results as the Returning Officer in the Adamawa Governorship election, while Uzochukwu and Ali were suspended for dereliction of duty, with Ali also facing legal proceedings over bribery allegations.

Furthermore, Oyintiloye praised INEC for prosecuting Prof. Ignatius Udok for electoral malpractice, describing it as a testament to the commission’s commitment to upholding electoral integrity.