ADC Renews Demand for INEC Chairman's Resignation Over Alleged Bias
The African Democratic Congress has intensified pressure on the Independent National Electoral Commission, demanding the immediate resignation of its chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan. The opposition party cites resurfaced social media activity from 2023 that it claims demonstrates pro-ruling party bias, describing the alleged commentary as "a grave affront to the integrity of our electoral system."
Controversial Social Media Interaction
The controversy centers on an X interaction from March 2023 during Lagos state elections. When APC national youth leader Dayo Israel posted about winning polling units in an "Igbo-dominated community" where the party had previously struggled, a reply from an account bearing Amupitan's name reportedly stated "Victory is sure." While the original post is well-documented, attribution of the reply remains contested.
INEC has previously dismissed such claims as fabrications, vowing to pursue those responsible for impersonation or circulating misleading material. However, critics point to digital footprints and account timing changes as raising legitimate questions about the electoral umpire's neutrality.
Broader Accusations of Interference
The ADC's latest demand connects this social media controversy to broader accusations of institutional bias. The party has repeatedly accused INEC under Amupitan's leadership of interfering in its internal leadership crisis, particularly regarding recognition of Senator David Mark's faction.
Earlier in April, ADC leaders including Mark held a press conference demanding the removal of Amupitan and all national commissioners, citing complete loss of confidence in their ability to conduct credible elections. The party now threatens to escalate civil disobedience until the chairman steps down.
Legal and Political Context
Amupitan, a senior advocate and former University of Jos professor, was confirmed as INEC chairman in late 2025. While initially praised for his legal expertise, his appointment quickly drew opposition criticism over perceived closeness to the ruling All Progressives Congress and President Bola Tinubu.
In response to the latest allegations, the ADC announced it would update petitions to:
- The Nigeria Bar Association
- International bodies
- Foreign governments
The party argues that an electoral umpire "must not only be independent, but must also be seen, beyond any reasonable doubt, to be independent."
INEC's Response and Constitutional Protection
INEC has firmly rejected calls for the chairman's removal, insisting that his tenure is protected under Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The commission maintains that the attacks are politically motivated and designed to undermine its independence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The controversy has intensified public debate about electoral integrity, with analysts warning that sustained questions over the electoral body's leadership could further erode trust in Nigeria's democratic institutions.
Opposition Threats and Future Implications
The ADC, positioning itself as part of the opposition coalition, has threatened coordinated nationwide action if Amupitan remains in office. While urging supporters to maintain lawful conduct, the party warns of escalating protests and civil disobedience campaigns.
This development comes at a critical juncture for Nigeria's electoral system, raising fundamental questions about:
- The perceived neutrality of electoral officials
- The impact of social media history on institutional credibility
- Constitutional protections for appointed officials
- Public confidence ahead of the 2027 elections
The standoff between the opposition party and electoral commission continues to unfold, with both sides digging in their positions as the political temperature rises ahead of the next general elections.
