The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
has dismissed claims of bias against its chairman, Joash Amupitan, describing
such allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
In a statement released in Abuja by its Chief Press
Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, the commission maintained that its recent decisions
were strictly guided by the law, particularly in compliance with a Court of
Appeal ruling.
INEC: Chairman Not Subject to Political
Pressure
The commission emphasized that its leadership operates
within constitutional provisions, noting that the appointment and removal of
the chairman and national commissioners are clearly defined by law.
It stressed that any attempt to demand the chairman’s
removal outside due process undermines the independence of the electoral body.
Compliance With Court Rulings Explained
INEC stated that its actions were aimed at avoiding
past situations where failure to obey court orders led to serious consequences,
such as in Zamfara and Plateau States where elected officials were removed.
The commission added that disregarding judicial
directives could disrupt ongoing legal proceedings and weaken the rule of law.
Rejection of Bias Allegations
The electoral body also rejected accusations of
undermining Nigeria’s multi-party system, pointing to the recent approval of
additional political parties as evidence of its neutrality.
It reiterated that its role is regulatory, not
political, and that it does not favour any party or group.
Voter Revalidation Exercise Clarified
INEC clarified that the planned nationwide voter
revalidation exercise is an administrative process aimed at improving the
credibility of the voter register.
According to the commission, the exercise will:
It added that the process will be conducted nationwide
and will include digital participation options, ensuring inclusiveness.
Focus on Upcoming Elections
The commission stated that its priority remains the
successful conduct of upcoming off-cycle elections, including those in Ekiti
and Osun States.
It cautioned against politicising routine
administrative activities, stressing its commitment to the Constitution and the
democratic will of Nigerians.
ADC Demands Chairman’s Resignation
The response follows calls from the African Democratic
Congress (ADC) for the resignation of the INEC chairman.
Speaking on behalf of the party, David Mark accused
the commission of partisanship and claimed it had acted improperly in an
internal party dispute.
He also alleged that the administration of Bola Tinubu
was attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
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