The Chairman of IRS Group, Rabi’u Isyaku Rabi’u has said there was no iota of truth in the purported presidential candidacy under the umbrella of the Nigeria Intervention Movement, NIM, party.
The party, one of the recently registerd by INEC, was formed by some Nigerian political and human rights activists with aim to partake in the 2019 general elections.
But Mr Rabi’u said in a statement that” I maintain a nonpartisan status and will appeal an appreciation of this right that I am entitled as fundamental.”
The IRS chairman said the information ascribing him the Deputy National Chairmanship position of the party was misleading and a misrepresentation of his position regarding political activities in the country.
“At no time did I attend any meeting of the group where it was discussed and agreed that I was to serve as the Deputy National Chairman of the movement or that the movement was going to be a political party or association that will partake in politics.
“While it is true that in the course of my discussions and interactions with people of like minds in Nigeria at different fora, I (like many other well-meaning Nigerians who see this as a prerequisite for a great Nigeria) subscribe to the idea of encouraging very large youth population and pressure groups that will promote peace and unity in Nigeria, and also serve as a platform to fight corruption and ensure good governance by the political class, I was invited to join the group NIM on the understanding that it was going to be a pressure group that supports the above vision.
“In order to avoid any misleading information or misrepresentation of my position regarding general political activities in Nigeria, I wish to state categorically as follows: That the said appointment and publication was not known to me and a grave mistake by NIM for which they have expressly apologized to me.
“That I maintain a nonpartisan status as it suites my vision of building bridges of love, understanding, peace and security, unity and trust, service, sacrifice, patriotism and development across all sections of Nigeria and that I remain committed to the various groups and organizations, set up by me and by others and to which I am associated with,” he said.
The chairman added that “I have not taken part in any of its social media discussions, I have not physically attended any NIM meetings, and I have not offered myself for appointment, election or selection into any of its offices or committees.
“Despite this, my name and/or picture have been circulated on at least three occasions as having some position, or having been appointed to committees of the NIM.”
