INEC REJECTS CALLS FOR CHAIRMAN RESIGNATION AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTIONS

Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected growing calls for the resignation of its chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, amid rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 general election.

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‎The demands were led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), whose leaders accused the commission of bias and questioned its ability to conduct a credible election. Former Senate President David Mark said the party had lost confidence in INEC’s leadership and called for the immediate resignation or removal of Amupitan and other national commissioners

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‎INEC responded by describing the calls as politically motivated and legally unfounded. In an official statement, the commission said the appointment, tenure, and removal of its chairman are governed strictly by the Nigerian Constitution, adding that demands made outside due legal process threaten the commission’s independence.

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‎The controversy comes as political parties and civil society groups intensify scrutiny of electoral preparations for 2027. Some organizations, including diaspora advocacy groups, have also expressed concern over public trust in the electoral body and urged reforms.

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‎2025 to succeed former chairman Mahmood Yakubu, has recently warned that misinformation and disinformation pose serious threats to the credibility of future elections.

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With Nigeria’s next general election approaching, the dispute highlights continuing concerns over electoral transparency, political neutrality, and voter confidence in Africa’s most populous democracy.