ABUJA:  The Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), a coalition of prominent Nigerian activists and intellectuals, has formally called for the immediate resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan. The group asserts that allegations of political bias have compromised his neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The demand was issued in a statement on Sunday by the MCE’s Media Coordinator, Comrade James Ezema. The coalition includes high-profile figures such as Femi Falana (SAN), Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, Dr. Usman Bugaje, and Professor Pat Utomi, among others.

Calls for Forensic Investigation

The MCE is urging the Federal Government to establish an independent panel—comprising members of the judiciary, civil society, and digital forensic experts—to investigate claims regarding Professor Amupitan’s alleged ties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

At the heart of the controversy are reports of "digital footprints" suggesting partisan leanings. While Professor Amupitan has denied these claims, the MCE argues that a simple denial is insufficient in the digital age.

“In this digital age, denial is not a defence—it is an invitation to forensic scrutiny,” the statement noted, citing the traceability of digital identities through BVN and NIN systems.

Concerns Over Democratic Integrity

The group expressed broader anxieties regarding the health of Nigeria's democracy, highlighting several key concerns:

• Selective Enforcement: The MCE accused INEC of a pattern of decisions that allegedly favour the ruling party while undermining opposition participation.

• One-Party State Risks: The group warned that current electoral trends risk shifting Nigeria toward a de facto one-party system.

• Misuse of State Apparatus: The statement condemned attempts to frame public scrutiny as cybercrime, describing threats against critics as a misuse of government power. 

International Reputational Risks

Beyond domestic stability, the MCE warned that failing to address these allegations could lead to international legal challenges. The group noted that aggrieved parties may seek redress through the ECOWAS Court, potentially exposing Nigeria to sanctions and significant reputational damage.

The Path Forward

The coalition maintains that the Chairman’s departure is necessary to preserve the legitimacy of the electoral body and the stability of the nation.

“The only honourable course is for the INEC Chairman to step aside and allow a transparent investigation,” the group stated, emphasizing that the leadership of the electoral umpire must remain "beyond reproach" to ensure the legitimacy of future governance.