The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed reports that its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, endorsed a partisan post on X, describing the allegation as false and misleading.
In a statement on Friday by the chief press secretary to the chairman, Adedayo Oketola, INEC said the report was part of a “malicious and coordinated campaign” aimed at discrediting the electoral body.
“The false claim alleges that the INEC chairman has, in the past, endorsed a partisan post on the platform X. This allegation is entirely baseless, a total fabrication, and a figment of the imagination of its purveyors,” the statement said.
INEC clarified that the Amupitan does not operate any personal account on X and has never engaged in partisan commentary.
The commission described the alleged post as an intentional attempt to undermine the chairman’s credibility and neutrality at a vital moment.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the INEC Chairman does not own or operate any personal account on X. He has at no time engaged in partisan commentary, nor has he ever associated himself with any political leaning or activity in his private or public capacity.
“This contrived X post is a desperate attempt to impugn the integrity and neutrality of the chairman. It is a needless distraction designed to stir public distrust in the electoral umpire,” it said.
INEC also expressed concerns over cybercriminals utilizing fake social media profiles in the chairman’s name to scam Nigerians.
“We are aware that cybercriminals have been utilizing fake social media accounts in the Chairman’s name to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians. Several of such accounts have been identified and reported to security agencies,” the statement noted.
The commission noted that it was working with security agencies to identify and prosecute those behind the alleged impersonation and misinformation.
“Let it be clearly understood that the Commission will ensure that these imposters face the full wrath of the law. Identity theft and the dissemination of forged social media interactions are criminal offenses under the Cybercrimes Act,” it said.
INEC asked the public to dismiss the claim and only rely on confirmed sources of official information.
“We urge the general public to disregard this falsehood in its entirety. The Commission will continue to disseminate official information through its verified institutional channels,” the statement added.
The commission underlined its commitment to conducting legitimate elections, stressing that it will remain focused on its mandate notwithstanding the developments.
