INEC Chairman Amupitan: Denies Pro-APC X Posts, Reports to SSS

• Prof. Joash Amupitan, the INEC Chairman, denied operating an X account.
• The alleged account reportedly supported President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress during the 2023 general election.
• Amupitan unequivocally stated that he has never maintained an X account.
• The matter has been reported to security agencies, including the SSS and Police.
• An independent report concerning the alleged account has been obtained.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, firmly denied any operation of an X account that allegedly endorsed President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress during the 2023 general election.

Prof. Joash Amupitan, who serves as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has publicly refuted claims that he operates an X account. This denial addresses specific allegations that an X account attributed to him was actively used to express support for President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the intensely contested 2023 general election period. The alleged posts, if true, would have indicated a clear partisan bias from a key electoral official.

Speaking on Thursday, Amupitan made it clear that he has no such social media presence. His statement directly counters the narrative that he engaged in political endorsements via the platform, which would be a significant breach of the neutrality expected from an INEC Chairman. The focus of his denial was absolute, emphasizing his complete lack of an X account.

In response to these serious accusations, Prof. Amupitan confirmed that he has taken proactive steps to address the situation. The matter has been formally reported to relevant security agencies, including the State Security Service (SSS) and the Police, initiating an official investigation into the source of the alleged X account and its content. This move underscores the gravity with which the INEC Chairman views the impersonation claims.

Further reinforcing his position, Amupitan revealed that an independent report has been obtained regarding the alleged social media activity. This Amupitan SSS police report and the independent findings are expected to provide clarity on the origins and authenticity of the X account in question, aiming to definitively resolve the issue of the alleged pro-APC X posts.

The allegations surrounding the Prof Joash Amupitan X account emerge against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny over Nigeria election social media integrity, particularly concerning the conduct of public officials during electoral processes. The neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission is paramount to maintaining public trust in the democratic system. Any suggestion of partisan activity by its Chairman, such as through All Progressives Congress posts, could significantly undermine the perceived fairness of the elections.

Amupitan's firm denial and the subsequent involvement of law enforcement agencies highlight the critical importance of digital identity protection for public figures. The potential for online impersonation to sow distrust and spread misinformation necessitates swift and decisive action, especially when it impacts the credibility of institutions like INEC.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, firmly denied any operation of an X account that allegedly endorsed President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress during the 2023 general election. This unequivocal statement is crucial for upholding the integrity of his office and the electoral body he leads. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges public figures face in managing their digital footprint and combating online impersonation.

The reporting of this matter to the SSS and Police, alongside the acquisition of an independent report, demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability. For the public, understanding that such allegations are being thoroughly investigated by security agencies can help restore confidence in the electoral process and the impartiality of its key officials, especially given the sensitive nature of the 2023 general election.

Lawyers should advise clients, particularly public figures, on proactive digital identity protection and the legal recourse available for online impersonation or defamation, including reporting to security agencies like the SSS and Police, as such incidents can significantly impact professional reputation and public trust.

Source: Original reporting via TheNigeriaLawyer.