Nigeria’s opposition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has intensified pressure on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, calling for his immediate resignation over allegations of political bias.
The party issued the warning on Saturday, vowing to escalate civil disobedience if Amupitan remains in office. The latest controversy stems from alleged past social media posts suggesting sympathy toward the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
INEC, through its spokesman Adedayo Oketola, had earlier dismissed the claims, cautioning against misinformation and the activities of impersonators online. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to credible elections and urged Nigerians to rely on verified communication channels.
However, the issue gained momentum after US-based Nigerian scholar Farooq Kperogi published a column alleging that archived posts linked to Amupitan’s name reflected pro-APC sentiments, including perceived support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The publication sparked widespread debate on social media, with opinions sharply divided over the authenticity and implications of the alleged posts.
Reacting, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi described the revelations as a serious threat to the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system.
“In a democracy, the umpire must not only be independent but must be seen to be independent beyond doubt,” Abdullahi said. “What we are witnessing is a grave affront to that principle.”
He further alleged attempts to manipulate digital records linked to the controversy, describing such actions as “a calculated assault on truth and accountability.”
According to him, Amupitan’s continued stay in office undermines public confidence in INEC and sets a dangerous precedent.
“The referee cannot wear the jersey of one of the teams,” he added.
“Professor Amupitan must resign immediately. Anything less is unacceptable.”
The ADC also disclosed plans to update its petitions to relevant institutions, including international bodies and the Nigerian Bar Association, while pledging to intensify protests until the INEC chairman steps down.
