I’m Not Part Of Any Plan To Turn Nigeria Into One-Party State, Says INEC Chair Amupitan

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has dismissed allegations that the commission was complicit in any plan to turn Nigeria into a one-party state in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amupitan made the clarification on Friday during an interview on Arise Television, monitored by LEADERSHIP, amid growing criticism over INEC’s recent actions concerning the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“Let me state very clearly that I’m not a part of anyone’s plan to turn Nigeria into a one-party state,” he said.

Addressing concerns surrounding the commission’s role in the ADC leadership dispute, the INEC chairman stressed that the commission acted strictly in line with judicial directives.

“If this judgment didn’t come, would I decide on my own? Even on social media, if you look at people who talk, they speak from their own interests,” Amupitan stated.

“The question is whether they lack confidence in what INEC has done. INEC didn’t make the decision that is causing these grievances.”

LEADERSHIP reports that INEC has come under intense scrutiny following its decision to derecognise ADC leadership, including former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, as national chairman and secretary, respectively. The commission cited compliance with an Appeal Court order as the basis for its action.

The move further escalated the internal crisis within the party, which dates back to July 2025 and centres on disputes over the composition of its National Working Committee and the role of former chairman Ralph Nwosu.

Opposition figures have since accused INEC of acting under the influence of the ruling government—an allegation the commission has consistently denied.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC chairman, Adedayo Oketola, the electoral body maintained that its actions were guided solely by constitutional provisions and judicial pronouncements.

INEC further emphasised that its structure and operations are constitutionally protected, noting that calls for the removal of its chairman fall outside established legal procedures.

However, the ADC faction led by Mark has rejected INEC’s position, insisting it will continue its political activities. The group also renewed calls for the resignation of the INEC chairman, citing what it described as a loss of confidence in the commission’s ability to conduct credible elections.