INEC Vows to Unmask Those Behind Fake Partisan Posts Targeting Chairman Amupitan
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has made a firm commitment to identify and bring to justice individuals responsible for viral claims that falsely associate its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, with alleged partisan social media posts. The Commission has categorically dismissed these allegations as entirely baseless, misleading, and part of a coordinated effort to undermine the credibility of the electoral body.
Commission Denies Allegations and Highlights Criminal Pattern
In a statement issued by Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, the Commission urged the public to disregard what it described as a deliberate campaign of misinformation. Oketola emphasized that Prof. Amupitan does not operate any personal account on X, formerly known as Twitter, and has never used social media platforms to express partisan views or political affiliations.
The statement revealed that the claims are being circulated to create distrust in the electoral body during a critical period when INEC is intensifying preparations for future elections. Oketola stressed that the Commission is aware of cybercriminals using fake social media accounts in the Chairman's name to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians, noting that several such fraudulent accounts have been identified and reported to security agencies in the past.
Collaboration with Security Agencies to Combat Identity Theft
INEC has announced it is working closely with relevant security agencies and cyber-intelligence units to track and identify the individuals or groups behind this identity theft and misinformation. The Commission warned that it will not stand idly by while the character of its leadership is tarnished by digital imposters and mischief-makers.
Oketola stated that identity theft and the dissemination of deepfake or forged social media interactions are criminal offenses under the Cybercrimes Act. He affirmed that those responsible for this mischief will be tracked and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others who believe the digital space is a safe haven for criminality.
Emphasis on Verified Communication Channels
The Commission reiterated that Prof. Amupitan does not operate any personal account on X and has never engaged in partisan commentary or political activity on any social media platform. INEC further stated that perpetrators will be prosecuted under relevant provisions of the Cybercrimes Act as part of broader efforts to curb identity theft and online misinformation.
INEC urged Nigerians to rely only on verified communication channels for official updates, emphasizing that authentic information about its activities is released strictly through formal statements and approved platforms. This move aims to ensure public trust and maintain the integrity of the electoral process amidst growing concerns over digital fraud and misinformation campaigns.
