Health
INEC Chair Amupitan Speaks on ‘Divine Conviction’ After Appointment Amid Neutrality Concerns
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has said he only accepted the role after receiving what he described as a “clear divine conviction,” even as questions over his neutrality continue to trail his leadership.
‘I would have declined’
Amupitan spoke in Abuja during an end-of-tenure service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention for its outgoing president, Israel Akanji, and his wife, Victoria.
According to him, the decision to lead Nigeria’s electoral body was not taken lightly.
“If I did not have the conviction for this job, I would not accept it,” he said.
He added that he drew strength from what he described as a direct assurance from God before taking up the position.
“The Lord said, ‘Fear not; do not be dismayed. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you.’ I heard this clearly before I accepted this job,” Amupitan stated.
Faith amid pressure
The INEC chairman said that conviction has remained central to his leadership, especially given the complexity of managing elections in Nigeria.
“No matter the storm, no matter the difficulty, God is able to calm every storm. That is what God has been doing,” he said.
He also urged Nigerians to pray for the electoral body ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the polls could set a new standard.
“Continue to pray for Nigeria… that the 2027 election will be the best ever,” he said, adding that success would require divine support.
Controversy over neutrality
Amupitan’s remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing scrutiny over his perceived political neutrality.
He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in October 2025 to succeed former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu.
Since then, resurfaced social media posts allegedly linked to him have sparked allegations of sympathy for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 elections.
The claims have triggered calls from opposition figures and civil society groups for his resignation.
Denial and pushback
Amupitan has denied operating the account linked to the posts and insisted he remains politically neutral.
INEC has also dismissed the allegations, describing them as attempts to discredit its leadership.
Despite the denials, the controversy has continued to shape public discourse around electoral credibility, voter confidence, and the integrity of the commission ahead of 2027.
The development remains a key talking point in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as attention shifts to preparations for the next general election.
Economy
Chelsea Sack Liam Rosenior After Five-Game Goal Drought, Appoint Interim Coach Ahead of FA Cup Clash
Chelsea Football Club have sacked head coach Liam Rosenior following a poor run of results, with the decision coming after a 3-0 defeat to Brighton and a historic goal drought in the Premier League.
Rosenior exits after poor run
The club moved to terminate Rosenior’s contract after Chelsea suffered five consecutive league defeats without scoring a goal.
The run marks the team’s worst attacking slump since 1912, raising serious concerns over performance despite heavy investment in the squad.
Rosenior leaves just over three months after signing a long-term deal in January, with the team currently sitting in mid-table.
Costly decision for Chelsea
Reports indicate that the financial impact of the sacking could be significant.
According to The Mirror, Chelsea may pay over £24 million in compensation following his dismissal.
The move adds to growing scrutiny over the club’s recent managerial decisions.
Interim coach takes charge
BBC Sport confirmed that Calum McFarlane has been appointed as interim head coach.
He is expected to lead the team through the remainder of the season, beginning with the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley this Sunday.
Big names linked to Stamford Bridge
As the search for a new manager begins, several high-profile candidates have emerged.
Reports from The Daily Mail suggest that Diego Simeone and former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas are among those being considered.
Meanwhile, The Athletic reports that Filipe Luis and Marco Silva are also on the shortlist.
Season under pressure
Chelsea’s struggles have intensified questions around the team’s direction, with fans and analysts debating whether the issues lie with management or the playing squad.
The development remains a major talking point in global sports conversations and trending football news.
Liam Rosenior and Chelsea: it’s over. 🚨❌ pic.twitter.com/2s8bGF6vWB
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 22, 2026
