News Report:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed claims linking its Chairman, Joash Amupitan, to a social media account on 𝕏, describing the allegation as false and misleading.
The clarification follows the circulation of images online showing a post dated March 2023 from an account bearing the handle @joashamupitan, which appeared to celebrate the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a community.
According to INEC, the account in question was later renamed, restricted, and labeled as a parody after the images gained traction online.
In a statement issued by the Chairman’s media office, the Commission said it had been alerted to what it described as a coordinated spread of misinformation aimed at suggesting that Amupitan engaged in partisan political commentary.
INEC maintained that its Chairman does not own or operate any personal account on 𝕏 and has never participated in political discussions on the platform. It added that the alleged post being circulated is fabricated and intended to tarnish his reputation at a time when the Commission is focused on electoral reforms and preparations for future elections.
The Commission further expressed concern over the proliferation of fake social media accounts created in the Chairman’s name, noting that such platforms have previously been used to mislead the public. It revealed that several of these accounts have been reported to security agencies.
INEC also disclosed that it is collaborating with security agencies and cyber experts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the fake posts and impersonation.
The Commission warned that individuals behind such acts risk prosecution under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and urged the public to rely solely on its official communication channels for verified information.
Amupitan, who assumed office in October 2025, has recently faced scrutiny from some quarters over his perceived neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, INEC insisted that the allegations are baseless and part of efforts to mislead the public, reaffirming its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections.
