ADC Demands Resignation of INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, Vows to Petition International Community and NBA

 

ADC Demands Resignation of INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, Vows to Petition International Community and NBA

By Kim Joshua Dahwol 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a firm and urgent ultimatum, demanding the immediate resignation or removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan. The party’s stance stems from growing concerns that his continued tenure could jeopardize the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes. In a formal statement, the ADC declared that if Prof. Amupitan is not ousted by 9 a.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026, it will take decisive action by petitioning the international community, the Nigerian Bar Association, and other relevant stakeholders to intervene. The party’s leadership emphasized that such steps are necessary to preserve the nation’s democratic credibility and ensure electoral fairness.

King Joel Agho, the leader of the ADC, issued a warning that failure to respond appropriately would unify Nigerians both at home and abroad in exposing what they describe as a troubling normalization of electoral misconduct. He expressed concern that the persistence of alleged biases and questionable conduct within INEC could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. The ADC has labeled Prof. Amupitan as “embattled,” accusing him of alleged political affiliations that threaten to compromise the neutrality and independence of Nigeria’s electoral body. These allegations, according to the party, cast doubt on the impartiality of upcoming elections and potentially threaten the democratic stability of the country.

The controversy surrounding Prof. Amupitan intensified after reports from the Peoples Gazette emerged, claiming to have uncovered digital footprints linking the INEC chairman to pro-Tinubu and All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign activities. The report alleged that a social media account associated with him carried partisan posts supporting the ruling party’s interests. INEC swiftly denied these claims, asserting that they are based on fabricated impersonations and emphasizing that Prof. Amupitan does not operate any personal social media accounts. Despite these denials, opposition groups and critics argue that the allegations raise serious conflict-of-interest concerns, suggesting that his past associations with the APC could influence electoral decisions and compromise the perceived independence of the electoral commission.

The call for Prof. Amupitan’s resignation has gained significant traction on social media platforms, with hashtags such as #AmupitanMustGo trending nationally. Many Nigerians, both supporters and critics, are demanding leadership that is free from political bias to restore faith in the electoral system. Supporters of the INEC chairman dismiss the allegations as part of a politically motivated smear campaign, asserting that he remains committed to conducting free and fair elections. The ADC’s threat to escalate the issue to the international arena underscores its strategy to rally diaspora and domestic supporters, aiming to highlight what it describes as a “disgrace” to Nigeria’s democratic credentials.

As of now, neither INEC nor the Nigerian Presidency has issued any public response to the ADC’s deadline. The controversy comes at a time when public trust in Nigeria’s electoral processes is fragile, raising critical questions about the government’s dedication to electoral reforms and the integrity of its institutions. The unfolding situation highlights the deepening concerns over electoral neutrality and the urgent need for transparent and credible leadership within Nigeria’s electoral management body. The coming days will be pivotal in determining whether the calls for change will lead to decisive action or further deepen the political crisis surrounding Nigeria’s democracy.