Kogi Youths March in Support of INEC Chair Amupitan, Decry 'Politically Motivated' Allegations

In Aiyetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, a vibrant demonstration unfolded as hundreds of youths rallied in unwavering support of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its esteemed chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN).

Carrying placards with bold inscriptions like “Enemies of Fairness, Beware!” and “Fair Elections Start with Amupitan,” the protesters, a mix of youth and civil society groups, rode in a motorcycle convoy, sending a clear message that accusations against the INEC chairman were nothing more than politically motivated fabrications designed to undermine the electoral commission.

A youth leader, Segun, speaking to the assembled crowd, emphasized the protesters' commitment to defending both Professor Amupitan and the institution he leads. "We are here to send a clear message: the sanctity of INEC must be protected. Prof. Amupitan is a man of integrity and a proud son of this land. Any attempt to unjustly tarnish his image is a direct attack on democracy," he declared. The youths unequivocally dismissed the allegations as sponsored propaganda, highlighting Amupitan's legal expertise and proven track record as assets that would further bolster the credibility of Nigeria's electoral processes.

This powerful display of solidarity comes at a crucial time, as a national conversation intensifies regarding Amupitan's appointment, with some voices calling for his dismissal. However, INEC has firmly refuted these calls, with its Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, stating in a release that the commission's leadership structure is constitutionally protected under Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution. INEC has also categorically denied any bias, reaffirming its dedication to recognizing all political parties and ensuring free and fair elections, including an upcoming routine voter revalidation exercise aimed at enhancing the integrity of electoral data. This development gains further significance as scrutiny of the commission heightens in anticipation of the off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.

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We are here to send a clear message: the sanctity of INEC must be protected. Prof. Amupitan is a man of integrity and a proud son of this land. Any attempt to unjustly tarnish his image is a direct attack on democracy.