ABUJA — Tensions at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reached a boiling point today amid reports that the embattled Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), is moving to update the names of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) on the commission’s portal.
The move, described by critics as a strategic distraction, comes as calls for Amupitan’s resignation intensify across the political landscape.
Allegations of Partisanship
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and several civil society groups have accused the Chairman of being an “APC card-carrying member” and a staunch supporter of President Tinubu. Critics argue that the sudden decision to update the ADC’s leadership list—after months of legal friction—is a desperate attempt to secure his continued stay in office by managing public perception.
“It is now obvious that any such move is part of a plan to deflect from the substantive issues regarding his neutrality,” a spokesperson for a prominent watchdog group stated.
ADC Response: “Calm and Integrity”
In a strongly worded statement, the ADC—led by former Senate President David Mark—warned that the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process is at stake. The party noted that developments of this nature only deepen public concern about the “neutrality, transparency, and credibility” of the commission.
“The present moment demands calm, openness, and institutional integrity,” the ADC statement read. “INEC must avoid any step that could be interpreted as an attempt to manage perception rather than address the substantive issues that have generated public debate.”
A Commission Under Fire
The controversy follows a series of conflicting court orders and internal leadership tussles within the ADC. While Prof. Amupitan has previously denied any partisan affiliations—stating during his Senate screening that he never served as counsel for the President—the optics of the current portal update have reignited suspicions.
As of press time, INEC has not issued an official response to the specific allegation that the portal update is a “distraction tactic.” However, the commission has consistently maintained that it acts strictly within the bounds of judicial rulings.
