Fresh controversy has trailed alleged past social media activity linked to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, following claims that he made partisan comments during the 2023 general elections.
The allegation, however, has been denied by the electoral body.
The issue gained prominence after a United States-based Nigerian scholar, Farooq Kperogi, published a column alleging that archived posts from an X account bearing Amupitan’s name suggested support for the All Progressives Congress and President Bola Tinubu.
Kperogi, who also shared excerpts from the publication on his social media handle, argued that the alleged posts could undermine public confidence in the neutrality of the electoral umpire, calling on the INEC chairman to step aside.
One of the posts attributed to the account read, “Victory is sure!” in response to a message by APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, celebrating electoral gains in a community.
The development triggered mixed reactions on social media, with some users expressing concern over the implications for the credibility of the commission.
Some commentators maintained that if the claims are proven, they raise ethical questions about the impartiality expected of the head of the country’s electoral body.
Others, however, questioned the authenticity of the allegations, noting that the account in question had reportedly undergone multiple changes in identity, thereby casting doubt on its ownership.
Some also called for broader electoral reforms to strengthen the independence of the commission, while others warned that the controversy could erode public trust ahead of future elections.
Reacting earlier, INEC dismissed the allegation as false, stating that its chairman does not operate any account on X.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, the commission cautioned against the activities of impersonators and cybercriminals spreading misinformation using fake identities.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections, urging the public to rely only on its verified communication channels.
