RismadarVoice Reporters
November 5, 2026
Human rights activist and political commentator Aisha Yesufu has urged Nigerians to hold individuals working within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accountable for their actions, arguing that institutional failures are often driven by the conduct of those entrusted with public responsibilities.
Yesufu made the remarks in a statement circulated on social media, challenging Nigerians to reconsider how they respond to alleged irregularities and administrative failures within government institutions.
“INEC is not the problem. The people working in INEC are the problem,” she declared, stressing that public officials are members of the same communities affected by institutional failures.
According to the activist, Nigerians should take greater responsibility for encouraging accountability among relatives, colleagues and community members occupying positions in public institutions.
She maintained that similar challenges affected other government agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the military and the judiciary.
Yesufu argued that institutional structures and legal provisions could not guarantee effective governance without individuals willing to discharge their responsibilities honestly and professionally.
Her comments come amid increasing public attention to preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, particularly concerns about electoral transparency, accountability and the credibility of election administration.
The activist, who is associated with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), had earlier warned electoral officials against interfering with voters’ choices during the forthcoming elections.
In a separate statement on Wednesday, November 4, she called for votes cast by Nigerians to be accurately counted and reflected in officially declared results.
She maintained that citizens should not depend solely on assurances from electoral authorities but should remain actively involved in monitoring democratic processes through lawful means.
Meanwhile, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, has repeatedly reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to impartiality, transparency and compliance with electoral laws ahead of the 2027 polls.
The commission has also outlined preparations involving voter registration, election technology and coordination with relevant security agencies.
Yesufu’s latest remarks emphasise her position that meaningful institutional reform requires individual accountability alongside effective laws, oversight and administrative safeguards.
The comments have brought renewed attention to the responsibilities of public officials and the role of citizens in demanding transparent governance.
