City Boy Movement Rejects Electoral Interference Claims, Insists Membership Registration Is Voluntary

The City Boy Movement (CBM) has dismissed allegations that its ongoing membership registration exercise interferes with Nigeria’s electoral process.

The group described the claims as misleading, insisting that its registration exercise serves organisational purposes and remains entirely voluntary.

In a press statement issued on Monday, November 2, 2026, the movement said its membership database helps strengthen its structures and coordinate activities across the country.

The statement was signed by O’tega Ogra, Deputy Director-General of Media, Communication and Public Affairs.

CBM stressed that its membership registration has no connection with the voter registration exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

It also maintained that its membership forms and cards do not confer voting rights or replace official electoral documents.

City Boy Movement Explains Purpose of Registration

The movement said its registration exercise aims to maintain accurate membership records and strengthen its organisational structures.

It explained that existing members and Nigerians interested in joining could register physically or through its official website.

According to CBM, the exercise allows the organisation to coordinate its programmes and activities more effectively.

The group insisted that participation remains a personal choice. It said Nigerians can decline membership, withdraw from the organisation or make independent political decisions.

CBM also rejected suggestions that it coerces people into joining or misrepresents its activities as official electoral registration.

It maintained that no Nigerian needs CBM membership to qualify for voting in an election.

CBM Distinguishes Membership Register From INEC Voter Register

The movement emphasised that its membership database serves a different purpose from INEC’s statutory voter register.

It noted that INEC remains constitutionally responsible for registering eligible voters and preparing, maintaining and updating the national voter register.

CBM explained that joining the movement does not automatically register anyone to vote.

It also does not amend an individual’s details in INEC’s database or replace any electoral requirement.

The organisation said its membership cards and forms are not Permanent Voter Cards or other official electoral documents.

According to the statement, maintaining a separate membership register does not, by itself, establish interference with or manipulation of the electoral register.

The movement urged political commentators and media organisations to distinguish between voluntary organisational membership and statutory voter registration before making public allegations.

Movement Addresses Personal Data Protection Concerns

CBM also addressed concerns about personal information collected during its registration exercise.

The organisation said it processes members’ information for specified and lawful purposes.

It pledged to handle personal data fairly, transparently and in line with applicable data protection laws.

The movement added that it had put safeguards in place to prevent unauthorised access, use or disclosure.

It also said participants would receive information about how the organisation processes their details and their privacy rights.

CBM maintained that any consent required by law must remain freely given, specific and informed.

The organisation described data protection as an important responsibility and said it expected everyone handling registration information on its behalf to comply with relevant legal requirements.

CBM Defends Seyi Tinubu Against Allegations

The movement also rejected attempts to associate its patron, Seyi Tinubu, with alleged wrongdoing simply because of his relationship with the organisation.

It said anyone making specific allegations against its patron, officers or members should identify the conduct involved and provide supporting facts.

CBM maintained that political disagreements should not become grounds for unsupported accusations or personal attacks.

However, it said it welcomed legitimate enquiries, lawful criticism and evidence-based scrutiny of its activities.

The organisation also pledged to review complaints fairly and cooperate with lawful investigations.

It urged media organisations and political commentators to verify information before circulating claims about its registration exercise or leadership.

City Boy Movement Reaffirms Support for Tinubu

The movement reaffirmed its commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It said it would continue to promote the administration’s programmes and support the President’s re-election through peaceful and lawful democratic participation.

CBM also maintained that its activities would follow applicable electoral laws and regulations.

The organisation said it would continue engaging Nigerians through its programmes and grassroots structures.

Its latest statement comes amid public discussions about political mobilisation and membership registration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The movement insisted that Nigerians should distinguish between joining a political support organisation and registering with INEC as eligible voters.

It said voluntary participation, responsible engagement and respect for electoral rights would remain central to its activities.