Nigerian content creator Kevin Chinedu, known online as Governor Amuneke, says he has turned down an offer to serve as a youth ambassador for the Independent National Electoral Commission after being told he would no longer be allowed to publicly criticise the electoral body.
Chinedu shared his decision in a video posted on social media, where he explained that he was contacted through Instagram by someone who said he had been recommended for the role. According to him, the offer was meant to support youth engagement and encourage participation in Nigeria’s electoral process, but he later raised concerns about whether the appointment would affect the kind of political content he creates.
The creator said his platform focuses on political commentary, governance issues, and public accountability across Africa. He said he asked directly if he would still be free to speak openly about INEC if he accepted the position.
According to him, he was told he could still speak about voter registration, civic duty, and public participation, but would not be expected to directly criticise the commission.
Speaking about the moment, Chinedu said the excitement he initially felt quickly changed. “What seemed to be a congratulations, what seemed to be a big smile on my face disappeared.”
He said accepting the condition would go against the purpose of his platform and the trust his audience has placed in him.
Chinedu also said his decision was not about rejecting the opportunity itself, adding that he respects the person who recommended him and remains open to future partnerships that do not limit his freedom to speak.
The INEC youth ambassador initiative has in the past featured public figures including 2Baba, M.I Abaga, and Funny Bone as part of campaigns aimed at increasing youth participation in elections.
INEC has not publicly responded to Chinedu’s claims at the time of filing this report.
Ademide Adebayo
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