Senior Fellow at the Centre for Democracy and Development, Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim, has accused the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, of acting with bias, warning that recent developments could weaken trust in Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of future polls.

Fresh claims against INEC leadership

Speaking during a television interview, Ibrahim said early actions under the current INEC chairman suggest a pattern that raises questions about neutrality.

He noted that although Amupitan is newly appointed, some of the commission’s decisions have already drawn concern from observers.

“Targeting opposition without basis”

Ibrahim alleged that certain moves by the electoral body appear to be directed at a major opposition party without clear legal justification.

“This indicates we have a partisan person, who has come to do the job of his master,” he said.

“He had partisan opinions in the last election and showed that partisanship openly on X.”

He added that several legal experts have also questioned the basis of some decisions taken by the commission.

Why this matters

According to Ibrahim, perceived bias from INEC could damage public confidence in elections, especially as political activities begin to build toward 2027.

He warned that trust in the electoral umpire remains a key pillar for credible elections.

What this means going forward

The remarks add to ongoing conversations around electoral transparency and accountability in Nigeria.

As scrutiny of institutions increases, stakeholders say maintaining neutrality will be critical in shaping public perception of future elections.