The African Democratic Congress (ADC) lawmakers in the House of Representatives have accused the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, of bias and demanded his sack from office.
The lawmakers also warned that his continued leadership could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
The lawmakers stated this while briefing journalists at the National Assembly on Monday, following their inaugural caucus meeting on Sunday, April 12, 2026, during which they reviewed recent political developments and expressed deep concern over the state of the nation’s democratic institutions.
They described the situation as “an existential threat to our democracy, and also expressed concern over what they termed the declining neutrality of the electoral umpire, as well as growing concerns about alleged compromise within the judiciary.
“The impartiality and neutrality of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to oversee a free, fair, and credible 2027 general elections has become questionable.”
They cited recent public statements and actions they deemed compromising and partisan.
According to them, the allegations linking the INEC chairman to partisan activities on social media are disturbing, noting that “he previously made a partisan statement on his personal X account where he expressed support for the All Progressives Congress (APC).” The caucus also referenced claims that he posted content alleging Christian genocide in Nigeria.
Although INEC denied that Professor Amupitan owns the X account in question, but the lawmakers maintained that “digital forensic analysis and other online investigations suggest that the account is indeed his,” adding that the controversy has raised concerns regarding his transparency, integrity, and trustworthiness, particularly given the critical nature of the office he holds.
On the basis of the concerns, the caucus insisted that in light of the inconsistencies, they’re calling for the removal of Prof. Amupitan from office, stressing that such action is necessary to safeguard the nation against an avoidable descent into undemocratic practices.
Beyond allegations of bias, the lawmakers accused INEC of interfering in the ADC’s internal affairs, particularly regarding the party’s leadership dispute. They alleged that the commission has abdicated its responsibility as an impartial arbiter and instead intervened in the party’s internal affairs, adding that it appeared to be recognising an illegitimate leadership faction contrary to the leadership of Senator David Mark.
The caucus further alleged a troubling nexus between elements within INEC and the judiciary, claiming that “the Commission, in collusion with certain elements within the judiciary, is actively working to undermine the aspirations of the ADC,” warning that such actions could prevent the party from fielding candidates in the forthcoming elections.
The lawmakers maintained that “credible information at their disposal suggest that certain individuals within the judiciary and INEC are collaborating to influence the outcome of a case” scheduled for April 14, 2026, describing the development as a serious threat to judicial independence and democratic fairness.
While citing provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, the lawmakers maintained that “no court in Nigeria shall entertain jurisdiction over any suit or matter pertaining to the internal affairs of a political party,” insisting that any deviation from that provision would amount to a breach of the law.
The caucus also announced plans to petition the National Judicial Council (NJC), stating, “We’ve concluded plans to submit a petition before the NJC” to investigate “politically exposed judicial officers” and recommend appropriate sanctions, including possible removal from the bench.
The lawmakers emphasised that their actions were driven by the need to protect democratic institutions, noting that they’re compelled to act in response to the existential threat to democracy, especially at a time when “critical segments of society are losing faith in the judiciary and electoral authorities.”
They further lamented over what they described as a decline in judicial standards, recalling that even during the military era, the judiciary “boasted esteemed jurists… who delivered discerning judgments despite the authoritarian regime,”
The caucus concluded by insisting that “INEC must not only be independent in name but also demonstrate impartiality, transparency, credibility, and trustworthiness,” warning that “current public perception suggests a disconnect from these ideals.”
