… Allegedly Ignored Legal Advice On Mark, Aregbesola Delisting
…Controversial Redeployment Raises Bias Concerns Ahead Of Osun Poll
…Commission Denies Partisanship, Disowns Statement Controversy
Daud Olatunji
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, is enmeshed in a fresh controversy following multiple allegations ranging from alleged disregard for legal advice to claims of partisanship and procedural breaches within the electoral body.
An investigation by PLATFORM TIMES revealed that the developments, which have unsettled top officials within the commission, have further heightened concerns over INEC’s neutrality ahead of critical elections.
Allegation 1: Ignoring Legal Advice on ADC Leadership Crisis
Sources within the commission disclosed that the INEC chairman allegedly overruled the Legal Department in the handling of the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress.
The controversy centred on the reported delisting of former Senate President, David Mark, and ex-Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Chairman and Secretary of the party, respectively.
Insiders said the Legal Department had advised against such action, citing a subsisting court order directing parties to maintain status quo ante bellum.
Despite this, the commission reportedly proceeded with actions perceived as altering the existing leadership structure, a move that has drawn criticism from stakeholders and opposition figures.
A senior official said, “The Legal Department clearly warned against taking steps that could violate the court order, but that advice was not followed.”
Allegation 2: Controversial Transfer of Osun REC
The INEC boss is also facing scrutiny over the redeployment of the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, barely months to the state’s governorship election.
Findings by PLATFORM TIMES indicated that the transfer was allegedly based on a petition attributed to the All Progressives Congress but believed to have been sponsored by an individual linked to the New Nigeria Peoples Party.
Sources claimed the petition was not thoroughly investigated before the decision was taken.
“The process lacked due diligence. The petition was neither properly verified nor subjected to standard procedures,” a source said.
The timing of the redeployment has been described by observers as politically sensitive, with concerns that it could affect preparations for the election.
Further checks revealed that the shake-up extended to other key officials, including ICT personnel, who were replaced in what insiders described as a sweeping restructuring.
Allegation 3: Past Pro-APC Social Media Post
The controversy is further compounded by allegations that Amupitan had, prior to his appointment, made a social media post perceived as supportive of the victory of President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC in the 2023 general election.
Critics argue that such an expression raises questions about his perceived neutrality in overseeing electoral processes.
Although the allegation predates his appointment, stakeholders insist it adds to a pattern of concerns about possible bias.
Allegation 4: Statement ‘Copied’ From Presidential Aide
INEC has also come under fire over claims that it reproduced a press statement earlier issued by a presidential aide, Dada Olusegun, while defending the chairman against allegations of partisanship.
The development sparked reactions on social media, with critics suggesting possible coordination between the commission and the Presidency.
However, INEC, in a statement, denied the allegation, describing reports that it copied the statement as “fake, misleading, and a misrepresentation of facts.”
The commission clarified that any prior circulation of the statement outside its official channels was done independently and not authorised by INEC.
Growing Concerns Over Credibility
The series of allegations has triggered anxiety among civil society organisations and political observers, who warn that the situation could erode public confidence in the electoral body.
Some insiders also expressed fears that the developments, if not addressed, might impact the credibility of the forthcoming Osun governorship election.
INEC Insists on Neutrality
In its reaction, the commission reaffirmed its non-partisan stance, urging Nigerians to disregard claims suggesting alignment with any political party or individual.
“The Commission remains strictly non-partisan and urges the public to rely only on its verified official channels,” INEC stated.
Calls For Transparency
As scrutiny intensifies, stakeholders have called on the commission’s leadership to provide clarity on the issues and ensure strict adherence to due process.
Observers say how INEC manages the unfolding controversies may ultimately shape public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of future elections.
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