ADC Threatens Fresh Protests, Demands INEC Chair’s Resignation

The African Democratic Congress on April 11, 2026, in Nigeria called for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Amupitan, over concerns about his neutrality, while also warning that it would intensify protest actions if he remains in office.

The party, through its spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, said the demand followed reports linking the electoral chief to a social media post made in 2023 that supported Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It said the development has raised doubts about whether the electoral body can act fairly in future elections.

According to the party, the role of an electoral umpire requires full independence, and any action that creates doubt in the minds of the public weakens trust in the system. It stated that recent findings and online records tied to the chairman have created concerns about his past political leaning.

The party also raised issues about alleged attempts to alter or remove online records connected to the matter. It said such actions, if true, could affect public confidence and raise questions about accountability.

It added that the conduct and past statements linked to the INEC chairman do not meet the standard expected of someone in charge of overseeing elections in the country. The party compared the situation to an official in a contest appearing to support one side.

As part of its next steps, the ADC said it plans to update its complaints to local and international bodies, including the Nigerian Bar Association, while also reaching out to foreign institutions.

The party further stated that it would continue and expand its civil disobedience activities until the chairman leaves office, maintaining that the issue must be addressed to protect trust in the electoral process ahead of future elections.