The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project on Monday in Nigeria called on the National Assembly to investigate allegations linked to social media posts said to be associated with the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, following a growing controversy.
The group made the call through a statement shared on its official platform, urging lawmakers to carry out a full inquiry into the claims and the response issued by INEC. It said the issue goes beyond online activity and could affect public trust in the electoral body responsible for conducting elections in the country.
SERAP explained that the credibility of the electoral commission is important to the acceptance of election results and warned that any allegation that may weaken public confidence should be properly examined. It added that the National Assembly has the legal power to investigate public institutions and officials when questions arise about their conduct.
The organisation also pointed to Nigeria’s obligations under local laws and international agreements, which require transparency and accountability in governance. It said any probe must follow due process and fair hearing, while the outcome should be made public to rebuild trust in the system.
The demand comes amid renewed attention on old social media posts circulating online, which some claimed were linked to an account believed to belong to the INEC chairman. The commission has rejected the claims, stating that the chairman does not operate a personal X account and has not made any political statements online.
INEC described the circulating content as part of a misinformation effort aimed at damaging its image. Its ICT Director, Lawrence Bayode, said the commission would rely on verified evidence rather than screenshots or artificial intelligence outputs, adding that security agencies and experts have been involved in checking the claims.
The situation has raised concerns about misinformation and its impact on public institutions, especially as the country prepares for future elections. SERAP maintained that if any wrongdoing is confirmed after investigation, necessary legal steps should be taken in line with the law.