INEC Dismisses Viral Claim of Chairman's Alleged Tinubu Support as False
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly rejected circulating social media allegations suggesting that its Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, previously endorsed a partisan post linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a strongly worded statement issued from the Chairman's office in Abuja, the Commission described the claim as entirely false and deliberately misleading, cautioning the public against what it termed a coordinated smear campaign designed to undermine institutional credibility.
Commission Clarifies Chairman's Social Media Absence
INEC stated categorically that the viral allegation is baseless, a total fabrication, and a figment of the imagination of its purveyors. The electoral body provided explicit clarification that Professor Amupitan does not operate any personal account on X, formerly known as Twitter, and has never engaged in partisan political commentary in either his private or public capacity. The Commission emphasized that the Chairman maintains strict neutrality and has never associated himself with any political leaning or activity.
INEC Raises Alarm Over Impersonation and Cyber Fraud
Beyond addressing the specific misinformation, INEC disclosed a troubling pattern of cybercriminal activity involving fake social media accounts bearing the chairman's name. The Commission revealed that these fraudulent accounts have been actively used to deceive and potentially defraud unsuspecting Nigerians. Several such accounts have previously been identified and reported to security agencies, with the latest incident representing part of an ongoing criminal pattern that exploits public trust in electoral institutions.
Legal Action and Security Collaboration Promised
The electoral commission announced it is working closely with security agencies and cyber-intelligence units to identify those responsible for both the false claims and the impersonation attempts. INEC stressed that identity theft and the dissemination of fabricated online content are punishable offenses under Nigeria's Cybercrimes Act, and vowed that offenders would face the full wrath of the law. The Commission described the contrived social media post as a desperate attempt to impugn the Chairman's integrity during a critical period when INEC is focused on significant electoral reforms and preparations for upcoming polls.
Public Urged to Rely on Verified Channels
INEC called on Nigerians to disregard the falsehood entirely and rely only on official, verified channels for accurate information about the Commission's activities. The statement concluded by reaffirming INEC's unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, insisting that the institution would not be distracted by attempts to tarnish its image or erode public confidence. The Commission emphasized that maintaining electoral integrity remains its paramount priority amid these challenges.
