INEC Defends Chairman Amupitan Amid ADC Resignation Call

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has defended its Chairman, Joash Amupitan, rejecting calls for his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The ADC, led by David Mark, demanded Amupitan's removal during a press conference in Abuja, accusing the commission of partisanship.

INEC clarified that it operates strictly within the law and in compliance with court orders, emphasizing that the chairman does not hold office at the pleasure of political parties. The commission noted that the ADC's leadership, under Mark, violated a court order by attempting to undermine ongoing legal processes.

INEC's Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, reiterated that the commission is committed to expanding Nigeria's democratic space and is preparing for upcoming elections, including a nationwide voter revalidation exercise. This exercise aims to address issues such as multiple registrations and deceased voters, ensuring the integrity of the voter register ahead of the off-cycle governorship elections scheduled for June and August 2026.