By Editor By Al-Amin Muhammad Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly rejected calls for the removal of its Chairman, Prof. Joash O. Amupitan, SAN, describing such demands as unconstitutional and a distraction from its core responsibilities.
In a statement issued on April 2, 2026, in Abuja by the Chairman’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, the Commission clarified that the agitation followed its decision to comply with a recent ruling of the Court of Appeal. INEC stressed that its actions were guided strictly by the rule of law and not influenced by political pressure.
The Commission emphasized that it operates within the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, noting that the appointment and removal of its leadership are clearly outlined under Section 157. It warned that any attempt to forcefully remove the Chairman outside constitutional procedures undermines the independence of the electoral body.
Addressing the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress, INEC said its compliance with court orders was necessary to avoid past legal consequences, citing cases in Zamfara and Plateau States where non-compliance led to the removal of elected officials. The Commission added that it acted in line with legal directives to maintain the status quo pending judicial determination.
INEC also dismissed claims that its actions threaten Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, pointing to the recent registration of three new political parties, bringing the total to 22, as evidence of its commitment to political inclusiveness.
On the planned voter revalidation exercise, the Commission described it as a routine administrative process aimed at improving the credibility of the voter register, not a political agenda.
Reaffirming its neutrality, INEC stated it remains focused on delivering credible elections, including the upcoming Ekiti and Osun governorship polls, and will not be distracted by unfounded allegations.