The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has firmly rejected allegations that the commission is being used to pave the way for a one-party state favoring President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has firmly rejected allegations that the commission is being used to pave the way for a one-party state favoring President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking on the controversy, Prof. Amupitan said, “I am not a party to the plan of anyone to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. By the constitution, Nigeria is a multi-party state, and this is recognized by the law and the Electoral Act.”
He highlighted the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections as proof of a thriving democracy, noting that at least ten political parties, including the PDP, ADC, Labour Party, and Zenith Labour Party, actively participated. “The democratic space remains vibrant. Competition is alive,” he added.
Addressing internal disputes within some political parties, including the ADC and PDP, Amupitan explained that unresolved leadership issues can delay democratic processes. “These matters are often subject to originating summons in court. The Court of Appeal has ordered expeditious hearing, and INEC respects these legal directives,” he said.
On INEC’s role, he stressed, “We follow court orders, not political pressure. Once the court gives judgment, parties can proceed, and life goes on. Any claim that INEC is being used to create a one-party state is completely false.”
Prof. Amupitan’s statement comes amid heightened speculation over political influence in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, reassuring Nigerians that the commission remains committed to impartiality and constitutional democracy.
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