NCSCN backs INEC chairman amid resignation calls

ABUJA: The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has passed a vote of confidence in the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan.

The Executive Director of NCSCN, Mr Blessing Akinlosotu, made this known while briefing newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

Akinlosotu said the decision was driven by the need to protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions amid what he described as misguided calls for the chairman’s resignation and unwarranted attacks on the integrity of INEC.

“In light of the unpatriotic and ill-motivated calls for the resignation of the INEC Chairman, the NCSCN hereby issues a unanimous vote of confidence in Prof. Amupitan,” he said.

He noted that the council’s position was based on the chairman’s legal integrity and commitment to the rule of law, adding that his handling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) matter demonstrated independence and respect for judicial processes.

Akinlosotu said that under Amupitan’s leadership, Nigeria’s electoral system had continued to improve, citing the role of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in curbing electoral fraud and strengthening credibility.

He added that renewed efforts to tackle vote trading showed that the electoral process had become more robust.

According to him, since assuming office on Oct. 23, 2025, Amupitan has remained apolitical and focused on delivering a free, fair and inclusive electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He cited the outcomes of the Anambra governorship election in November 2025 and the recent FCT Area Council polls as indicators of progress.

Akinlosotu warned against attempts to undermine the commission, stressing that criticism of the INEC chairman for complying with court orders amounted to an attack on the judiciary.

He advised the faction of the African Democratic Congress involved in the dispute to seek redress through the courts rather than politicising the issue.

The NCSCN executive director also disclosed that the council had received intelligence about plans to mobilise civil society groups for protests against INEC.

He cautioned that any organisation found participating in such actions would face sanctions, including possible de-affiliation from the council.

“We state categorically that the civil society space will not be used for partisan interests. Nigeria’s democracy is maturing, and the rule of law must prevail,” he said.