The Foundation for Digital Justice has formally requested more transparency from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding its recent investigation into an alleged X account linked to its chairman, Joash Amupitan.
INEC had earlier announced that a forensic review found the account, @joashamupitan, and its associated posts to be fake and not verifiable through digital evidence. The commission stated that it engaged an independent cybersecurity expert who carried out a detailed investigation using platform data, internet archives, open-source intelligence tools, and identity verification methods.
The controversy began on April 10 after social media users shared screenshots claiming the INEC chairman operated the account and made a politically suggestive comment in response to a post by an APC official. Additional materials, including alleged contact and financial details, were also circulated online as supposed proof.
In a Freedom of Information (FOI) request dated April 21, the foundation asked INEC to provide a certified copy of the full forensic report. It also requested the identity and professional background of the expert or firm involved in the investigation.
Further demands included access to the engagement documents outlining the scope of work, the total cost of the investigation with a breakdown of payments, as well as procurement records and completion certificates related to the task.
The organisation emphasised that the information should be released within the timeframe specified under the Freedom of Information Act, warning that legal action may be taken if the request is not fulfilled.
