The Independent National Electoral Commission has dismissed claims that its chairman, Joash Amupitan, operates a partisan account on X, describing the allegation as false and malicious.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by Adedayo Oketola, chief press secretary to the INEC chairman, the commission said the claim was part of a “coordinated campaign of calumny” aimed at discrediting its leadership.
The clarification follows the emergence of an X account bearing the name “Joash Ojo Amupitan”, which circulated posts appearing to support President Bola Tinubu.
INEC, however, said Amupitan does not own or operate any personal account on the platform.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the INEC chairman does not own or operate any personal account on X. He has at no time engaged in partisan commentary, nor has he ever associated himself with any political leaning or activity in his private or public capacity,” the statement reads.
The commission described the viral posts as a fabrication designed to undermine the neutrality of the electoral body, especially at a time it is focused on electoral reforms and preparations for future polls.
“This contrived X post is a desperate attempt to impugn the integrity and neutrality of the chairman at a critical period… It is a needless distraction designed to stir public distrust in the electoral umpire,” the statement added.
INEC also raised concerns about the growing use of fake social media accounts in the chairman’s name, noting that such platforms have previously been used by cybercriminals to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
The commission said it is working with security agencies and cyber-intelligence units to identify those behind the fake account and bring them to justice.
“Identity theft and the dissemination of deepfake or forged social media interactions are criminal offences under the Cybercrimes Act. Those responsible for this mischief will be tracked and prosecuted,” the statement said.
The commission urged the public to disregard the account and rely only on its verified communication channels for official information.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, adding that it would not be distracted by attempts to undermine public confidence in its leadership.
