A coalition of civil society organizations led by the Humanities Welfare and Social Development Initiatives has strongly condemned what it describes as a sustained campaign of calumny against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN.
Speaking at a world press conference held today, the group which consists of Humanities Welfare and Social Development Initiatives In Collaboration with Coalition for Civil Society Partners; Niger Delta Democratic Initiatives; Arewa Youth Parliament; Initiative for African Youth Advancement Advocacy and Empowerment; and Nigerian Youth for Good Governance Initiative, represented by Comrade Felix Nnalue Attah; Kennedy Tabuko Comr., Comr. Usman Baba Kankia; Amb. Akinnawo Oluwaseun and COMR Shuaibu Abdulkadir, expressed deep concern over what it called “unwarranted attacks” allegedly orchestrated by segments of the political elite.
The group warned that such actions pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability and could erode public confidence in key institutions.
The civil society groups in conjunction with civil society stakeholders across the country also passed a vote of confidence in Professor Amupitan’s leadership of INEC.
The civil society group commended the INEC Chairman for implementing reforms and administrative policies aimed at strengthening electoral integrity, improving transparency, and rebuilding public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system. While noted that his adherence to court rulings, particularly in sensitive political matters such as the ongoing ADC crisis, demonstrates respect for constitutional principles and due process.
Highlighting his credentials, the coalition described Professor Amupitan as a seasoned legal scholar and administrator, citing his past roles as Head of the Public Law Department, Dean of the Faculty of Law, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Jos. His status as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Professor of Evidence and Corporate Governance, the group added, underscores his competence and integrity.
The coalition urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and not be swayed by misinformation or politically motivated narratives designed to derail ongoing reforms. It also called for unity in supporting credible leadership and strengthening democratic institutions.
“As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, it is crucial to prioritize national interest, uphold truth, and support leaders committed to fairness, justice, and electoral excellence,” the statement read.
The group also called on Professor Amupitan SAN, to remain focused and undeterred, urging him to continue upholding the rule of law while working towards delivering free, fair, and transparent elections.
The statement was jointly signed by Comrade Felix Nnalue Attah and other civil society leaders across Nigeria.
