The core of the controversy stems from forensic AI evidence that allegedly links Professor Amupitan to a partisan social media account. Critics and opposition groups claim that this account has been used to express support for the ruling party, specifically regarding President Tinubu’s 2023 victory, which would violate the constitutional requirement for an INEC Chairman to remain strictly non-partisan.
As of April 13, 2025, several political factions, including representatives from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have formally called for the removal of Professor Amupitan from his position.
They are calling for a thorough police investigation into his digital activities and prosecution if the forensic evidence proves he compromised the commission’s neutrality.
The situation has triggered mixed reactions across Nigeria. Hundreds of youths in Aiyetoro Gbede (Amupitan’s hometown) have staged protests, alleging that the Chairman is being “politically persecuted” by those who wish to destabilize the electoral body ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Figures like the SDP’s Adebayo have used the crisis to warn of a move toward “one-man rule,” while other governors have vowed not to let the security situation in their states be politicized by the fallout.
Despite the mounting pressure, INEC has officially dismissed the calls for his removal. The commission maintains that it remains committed to conducting credible elections and insists that the allegations are a distraction from the electoral reforms being implemented for the 2027 cycle.
Professor Amupitan took office in October 2025, succeeding Mahmood Yakubu. This current crisis is the first major challenge to his leadership, occurring just as the commission has released the timetable for the 2027 General Elections.
