Public debate has intensified following an alleged social media post linked to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, which many Nigerians interpreted as expressing support for President Bola Tinubu.
The controversy emerged after a post containing the phrase “victory is sure” surfaced online and was widely attributed to the INEC chairman before it was reportedly deleted.
The timing of the post coincided with the circulation of a message by the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Dayo Israel, who highlighted electoral successes in areas traditionally dominated by opposition parties.
In the viral message, the APC stakeholder claimed to have secured victories in seven out of 10 polling units in a predominantly opposition-leaning community, attributing the shift to sustained grassroots engagement with local youths.
The alleged repost or endorsement of the message by the INEC chairman quickly sparked backlash, with critics questioning the impartiality of the electoral umpire.
Although the post was reportedly deleted shortly after it appeared, screenshots have continued to circulate online, fuelling widespread scrutiny.
Adding to the controversy are unverified claims that Prof. Amupitan was active on a Facebook platform identified as Tinubu Support Group, where he was allegedly seen making comments perceived as supportive of the president.
Additionally, an image circulating on social media purportedly shows him wearing a cap bearing the president’s campaign logo, though the authenticity of the image has not been independently confirmed.
The development has prompted concerns among Nigerians, many of whom argue that the head of the electoral body must maintain strict neutrality given the sensitive responsibilities of the office.
Political analysts and civil society organisations have also weighed in, warning that even the perception of bias could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“This is beyond a single post; it raises serious questions about institutional integrity,” a political analyst stated, noting that the credibility of INEC is closely tied to the perceived neutrality of its leadership.
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The situation has reignited calls in some quarters for the chairman’s removal, with critics insisting that the position demands the highest standards of independence, transparency, and professionalism.
However, some supporters have called for caution, suggesting the post may have been misinterpreted, taken out of context, or shared inadvertently.
They have urged the public to await an official clarification before drawing conclusions.
As of the time of filing this report, INEC has yet to issue a formal response to the allegations.
