Civil Society Backs INEC Chairman Amid Resignation Calls

The Nigerian Civil Society Council (NCSC), representing nearly 1,000 NGOs, publicly supported Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), during a press briefing in Abuja.

Bless Akinlosotu, the Executive Director of NCSC, announced a unanimous vote of confidence in Amupitan, highlighting the necessity to protect Nigeria's democratic institutions amid misguided calls for his resignation. The council condemned these "unwarranted" attacks on INEC, asserting that they are politically motivated and aimed at undermining the commission's integrity.

Akinlosotu emphasized that Amupitan's leadership is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections, particularly with the upcoming Anambra governorship election in November 2025. The NCSC warned against any attempts to mobilize civil society organizations for protests against INEC, stating that such actions would not be tolerated and would distract from the commission's reform efforts.

The council reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law and the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria.