A civil society group advocating accountability and good governance has declared its support for the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, describing him as competent, transparent and credible leader.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, the group’s President, Prince Peter Bassey, said the INEC chairman has demonstrated “integrity of the highest order” since assuming office on October 23, 2025.
Mr. Bassey stated that under Amupitan’s leadership, INEC had adhered strictly to constitutional provisions, the Electoral Act, and international best practices, while maintaining openness and accountability in its operations.
He cited several milestones recorded by the commission, including the early release of the timetable for the 2027 general elections on February 13, 2026, which he said has enabled political parties and stakeholders to prepare adequately. He also referenced the successful conduct of the Anambra State governorship election in November 2025 and the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections held in February 2026.
According to him, INEC has also commenced proactive preparations for upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, alongside plans for a nationwide voter revalidation exercise aimed at improving the credibility and accuracy of the voter register.
The group further commended the commission’s sustained engagement with stakeholders, including political parties, security agencies, the media and civil society organisations, describing it as a demonstration of an open-door policy that promotes transparency and trust.
Mr. Bassey also dismissed allegations circulating on social media linking the INEC chairman to a purported X (formerly Twitter) account. He described the claims as false and the result of deliberate misinformation.
“Our findings show that the alleged account does not belong to Professor Amupitan. The details being circulated were manipulated to mislead the public and damage his reputation,” he said.
He called on security agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for spreading false information online, warning that such actions pose a threat to national stability and democratic institutions.
The group also urged Nigerians to disregard criticisms from what it described as “isolated voices,” including allegations questioning the chairman’s integrity, insisting that such claims lack merit.
Mr. Bassey emphasized the need for all parties involved in ongoing legal matters concerning INEC to allow the courts to carry out their duties without interference.
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