INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan Clarifies Absence Amid Queries

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) explained that its Chairman, Prof Joash Amupitan (SAN), is currently away from Abuja on an official assignment. This clarification follows a demand from the Obidient Movement, which sought information regarding Amupitan's whereabouts after National Commissioner Prof Rhoda Gumus appeared as acting chairman at an event with an African Union delegation in Abuja.

The Obidient Movement, represented by its National Coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, expressed concerns over the lack of public communication regarding Amupitan's absence and the circumstances surrounding it. They requested details about when Amupitan left Abuja, the purpose of his absence, and whether he had traveled abroad.

The movement emphasized the importance of transparency and public confidence in INEC's leadership as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. They also questioned Amupitan's alleged connections with the All Progressives Congress, urging the commission to maintain political neutrality.