The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected calls for the removal of its chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), addressing misconceptions surrounding its upcoming nationwide voter revalidation exercise.
In a statement issued in Abuja, INEC noted that allegations of partisan bias and calls for the chairman’s removal are misplaced. The Commission emphasized that its leadership is constitutionally protected, and the appointment, tenure, and removal of the Chairman and National Commissioners are strictly governed by the Constitution.
“Any call for removal outside the established constitutional process is not only a distraction but a direct assault on the independence of the nation’s electoral umpire,” the Commission stated.
INEC explained its compliance with a recent Court of Appeal ruling was necessary to prevent situations like those previously experienced in Zamfara and Plateau states, where elected officials were removed due to disobedience of court judgments. The Commission further noted that monitoring certain party activities could contravene ongoing Federal High Court orders.
Addressing accusations of undermining the multi-party system, INEC highlighted the registration of new political parties, bringing the total to 22, as evidence of its neutrality. The Commission reiterated that it remains a regulator, not a participant in political contests, and will not involve itself in internal party disputes.
On the voter revalidation exercise, INEC clarified that the process predates Professor Amupitan’s appointment and is aimed at strengthening the integrity of the National Register of Voters. The exercise will verify registered voters, address issues of multiple registrations, transfers, and deceased persons, and will be conducted uniformly across all local areas with digital options to facilitate participation.
INEC stated that its focus remains on preparing for the Ekiti (June 2026) and Osun (August 2026) off-cycle elections and reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles and adherence to the rule of law.
