Why I rejected INEC youth ambassador role, by Skitmaker Amuneke
Skitmaker Kevin Chinedu has explained why he turned down an offer to serve as a youth ambassador for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying the position would have restricted
Skitmaker Kevin Chinedu has explained why he turned down an offer to serve as a youth ambassador for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying the position would have restricted his ability to publicly criticise the commission.
In a video posted on X on Monday, the comedian said he was contacted about the appointment via social media and initially considered it an honour.
“Reports came to me that I was going to be appointed as INEC Youth Ambassador. I have never felt as proud of myself when I got that message,” he said.
Amuneke noted that the offer felt like recognition of his journey from a modest background to becoming a well-known content creator.
“This is supposed to be a national honour. I do not know how to feel about it, but it brought me tears of joy when I thought about how far I have come,” he added.
He said the role was expected to involve mobilising young Nigerians for civic engagement, including voter registration and participation in elections.
However, he stated that his enthusiasm changed after he sought clarification on whether he would still be free to criticise INEC if necessary, a condition that ultimately influenced his decision to decline the offer.
“I asked a simple question. I said, ‘Am I going to still be able to criticise INEC if I’m appointed?’” Amuneke stated.
He was told he could continue producing his usual content and promote civic awareness, but would not be permitted to directly criticise the commission.
“They told me they have seen the type of content I do. All of that can still go on. As a matter of fact, I can even preach about getting PVCs and all of that. However, I cannot criticise directly INEC,” he said.
He said the condition conflicted with the foundation of his work, which is built on political satire and holding institutions accountable.
“The moment I heard that, what seemed like congratulations disappeared. I wish it did not come with certain conditions to box my voice,” he said.
The restriction, he explained, undermined the purpose of his platform and the expectations of his audience.
Amuneke attributed his stance to his background, his experiences, and messages he receives from followers across Africa about governance issues.
He argued that pressure to stay silent on certain matters would be worse than the challenges he faces as an independent critic.
He urged other content creators to protect their platforms and not trade their voices for recognition or financial gain, stressing that millions of people rely on those platforms for representation.
“If you have a platform today and you do not compromise, always remember there are millions of people whose hope is on that voice. That voice is not just yours,” he said.
While declining the offer, Amuneke expressed gratitude to those who recommended him and said he remains open to partnerships with brands and institutions, provided they do not impose conditions that limit his content.
“I want to thank the person who recommended me. I do not take these opportunities for granted. I am open to working with brands and institutions, but not under conditions that restrict my content,” he said.
