Pressure is mounting on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, to step down following allegations linking him to pro-Tinubu posts on X (formerly Twitter).
Civil society groups, opposition figures, and Nigerians in the diaspora have raised concerns that the controversy could undermine public trust in the electoral body ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Monday, protesters gathered at INEC’s Lagos office and outside the UK Parliament, demanding Amupitan’s resignation. The demonstrations were supported by diaspora groups and the youth wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
A coalition known as the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), led by prominent figures including Pat Utomi, Femi Falana, and Oby Ezekwesili, described the situation as a “crisis of credibility.” The group urged Amupitan to step aside to allow for an independent and transparent investigation.
They warned that the controversy could damage Nigeria’s democratic process, stressing that trust in the electoral body is essential for credible elections.
Meanwhile, INEC has dismissed the allegations, stating that a forensic investigation found no evidence linking the chairman to the disputed X account. According to the commission, the posts were part of a coordinated disinformation campaign.
INEC cited technical inconsistencies, including timestamp errors, and noted that the account had been altered and labeled as a parody. It also denied any connection between the account and Amupitan’s personal details, such as his phone number or email.
Despite this, skepticism remains high. Critics have questioned the independence and credibility of the investigation, with many Nigerians expressing doubts on social media and calling for a more transparent probe.
The ADC youth wing also staged a protest in Lagos, insisting that Amupitan must resign to restore confidence in the electoral system. The protest followed earlier demonstrations in Abuja involving key political figures.
An APC chieftain, Farouk Adamu Aliyu, called for an independent investigation, stating that Amupitan should be removed if the allegations are proven. He emphasized that the credibility of INEC is crucial to maintaining stability and public trust.
The controversy stems from viral screenshots of an X account allegedly linked to Amupitan, which appeared to show support for the ruling party during the 2023 elections. While some analyses suggest possible connections, they fall short of definitive proof.
As reactions continue to pour in, many Nigerians warn that failure to address the issue transparently could erode voter confidence and affect participation in future elections.