The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, to prioritise loyalty to Nigerians.
In a statement, the party said Amupitan’s appointment presents a historic opportunity to distinguish himself as an INEC chairman who delivers free, fair, and credible elections, rather than being seen as an instrument of political influence.
Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Thursday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi said the party was taking a cautious approach, noting that little is yet known about the new electoral chief.
“We still don’t know much about him, so there’s a limit to how seriously we can react at this time,” Abdullahi stated.
He, however, expressed optimism that Amupitan would uphold the integrity of the electoral process and act in the interest of citizens.
“We hope he proves loyal to the Nigerian people and not to the government.
“His appointment gives him a chance to write his name in history as the INEC Chairman who delivered credible elections, not as a stooge of the ruling party. That is our preliminary comment,” Abdullahi added.
The ADC noted that its caution reflects wider public concern about the independence of Nigeria’s electoral institutions, emphasising that Amupitan’s tenure will be a key test of his integrity and commitment to democratic values.
Abdullahi’s remarks came in response to questions on the ADC’s reaction to the Council of State’s approval of Prof. Amupitan’s nomination as INEC Chairman earlier on Thursday.