ActionAid Calls For INEC Chair Amupitan’s Resignation Over Alleged Partisan Links

The Country Director of ActionAid, Andrew Mamedu, has called for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, over alleged past partisan social media activity.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Mamedu said screenshots circulating online appear to show Amupitan engaging in partisan political conversations prior to his appointment. He noted that one of the posts suggested support for a narrative aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including a message indicating that “victory is sure.”

Mamedu expressed concern over INEC’s response to the controversy, particularly its denial of ownership of the social media account linked to the chairman. According to him, the denial “in the face of mounting digital evidence raises more questions than it answers.”

He argued that even if the alleged posts were made before Amupitan’s appointment and in a personal capacity, their proximity to the 2023 general elections raises serious concerns about perceived neutrality.

“While individuals are entitled to political opinions, these actions occurred within the immediate political environment of the 2023 elections. That proximity is exactly why Nigerians now struggle with the perception of neutrality,” he said.

The ActionAid director stressed that the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system depends not only on actual impartiality but also on public confidence in its leadership.

He warned that the emergence of what he described as “credible and widely circulated evidence of past partisan alignment” has significantly eroded trust in the electoral body.

“If the person entrusted with overseeing elections is facing such allegations, then Bola Ahmed Tinubu must do the honourable thing and replace him,” Mamedu stated.

He also called on the National Assembly of Nigeria to investigate the matter thoroughly, urging lawmakers to avoid what he termed a pattern of inaction.

“Nigerians expect the National Assembly to interrogate this issue openly and decisively,” he said, insisting that accountability must be upheld in the interest of democratic integrity.

Addressing Amupitan directly, Mamedu maintained that the office of INEC chairman demands “unquestionable neutrality,” adding that perception is just as important as reality in maintaining public trust.

“The standard for this role is not just actual neutrality but perceived neutrality—and that perception has now been seriously damaged. This is the time to do the needful and resign,” he said.

Mamedu further urged religious leaders across the country to speak out on issues of governance and accountability, describing the moment as one that requires moral clarity and courage.

“While I commend religious leaders who have spoken against bad governance, this is a time to take a firm stand against impunity. Call your members to stand on the side of accountability,” he added.

He concluded by reiterating that, “in the face of all the evidence now before Nigerians, Prof. Joash Amupitan must go.”

The controversy continues to spark debate over the integrity and independence of Nigeria’s electoral system, with growing calls for transparency and accountability.