The House of Representatives caucus of the African Democratic Congress has called on President Bola Tinubu to remove and prosecute the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, over allegations of bias ahead of the 2027 elections.
The position was announced on Monday by the caucus leader, Afam Ogene, following a group meeting in Abuja.
Mr Ogene said recent actions and alleged statements attributed to the INEC chairman had raised serious concerns about his neutrality and ability to oversee a credible electoral process.
“The caucus raised concerns regarding the impartiality and neutrality of the Chairman of INEC… to oversee a free, fair, and credible 2027 general elections,” he said.
He alleged that Prof Amupitan had made partisan comments on social media in support of the ruling All Progressives Congress, as well as controversial posts, claims the commission has denied.
The demand comes amid a deepening leadership crisis within the party, particularly over INEC’s withdrawal of recognition for a faction led by David Mark.
Credibility concerns
According to the caucus, conflicting reports over the ownership of the social media account in question have further deepened doubts about the INEC chairman’s integrity and transparency.
It argued that such allegations, if left unaddressed, could undermine public confidence in the electoral body at a critical time.
The caucus said the move, which also affected a rival faction, had triggered internal disputes and legal battles, threatening the party’s participation in the 2027 elections.
Allegations of interference
Lawmakers accused INEC of interfering in what they described as internal party affairs, thereby worsening the crisis and potentially blocking the ADC from fielding candidates.
The caucus further alleged collusion between some judicial actors and INEC officials to influence outcomes related to the party’s leadership dispute.
“In fact, credible information at our disposal suggests that certain individuals within the judiciary and INEC are collaborating to influence the outcome of a case… regarding the leadership question in the ADC,” Mr Ogene said.
Planned legal action
Beyond the electoral body, the caucus raised concerns over alleged judicial partisanship and disclosed plans to petition the National Judicial Council.
It referenced recent remarks by Afam Osigwe, indicating that some judges may face investigation and possible removal if found culpable.
The development signals rising political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections, with growing scrutiny of electoral and judicial institutions and their role in safeguarding democratic processes.
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