ADC lawmakers demand prosecution, removal of INEC chairman over alleged partisanship

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) caucus in the House of Representatives has called for the immediate prosecution and removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Joash Amupitan, over allegations of political bias and compromised neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The lawmakers made their position known after an inaugural meeting held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, where they reviewed recent political developments and expressed concern over what they described as growing doubts about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral umpire.

In a strongly worded resolution, the caucus accused Amupitan of conduct and statements it claimed were inconsistent with the neutrality expected of the head of an independent electoral body.

They specifically referenced allegations that the INEC chairman allegedly maintained a personal X (formerly Twitter) account in which he was said to have expressed support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and shared controversial commentary on sensitive national issues, including claims of religious persecution.

Although INEC has denied any connection between the chairman and the account in question, the ADC lawmakers insisted that what they described as digital forensic indications raised serious questions about transparency and public trust.

“The integrity of the electoral commission must not be compromised under any circumstances,” the caucus said, warning that perceived partisanship at the top of INEC could undermine confidence in the 2027 polls.

The lawmakers further alleged that under Amupitan’s leadership, INEC had taken steps they interpreted as interference in the internal affairs of the ADC, particularly in relation to the recognition of a disputed leadership structure within the party.

They argued that the commission’s actions amounted to a breach of its constitutional duty as an impartial referee, insisting that INEC’s conduct risked deepening political tensions ahead of the next general elections.

The caucus also raised concerns about an ongoing leadership dispute within the party, referencing a faction led by former Senate President David Mark, which they claimed had met all regulatory requirements for recognition.

In addition, the lawmakers alleged possible collaboration between certain INEC officials and elements within the judiciary in relation to a pending court case involving the party’s internal crisis, scheduled for hearing on April 14, 2026.

They further cited provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, including Section 83(5), arguing that internal party matters should not be subject to external judicial interference, and warned against what they described as overreach by the courts.

As part of their response, the caucus said it would petition the National Judicial Council (NJC) over alleged judicial misconduct, calling for investigations into judges they accused of being influenced by political interests.

They also referenced recent comments by Nigerian Bar Association President Afam Osigwe on concerns about judicial independence and perceptions of corruption within the justice system, including allegations of inducements involving public officials.

The lawmakers warned that the combination of alleged electoral bias and judicial compromise posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.

Describing the situation as an “existential threat” to democracy, the caucus urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and to defend the integrity of national institutions.

They also called for urgent reforms to strengthen INEC’s independence and restore public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the commission must not only be independent in name but also in practice.