The Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) has urged the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to step aside over allegations that have sparked public distrust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group said the call is necessary to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system and restore confidence in the commission.
MCE cited alleged digital footprints linking the INEC boss to partisan expressions favouring the ruling party, claims which Amupitan has reportedly denied.
However, the organisation argued that the denial has not eased concerns, calling instead for an independent investigation using digital forensic tools to verify the allegations and prevent further damage to the commission’s credibility.
Amid the controversy, concerns over vote-buying continue to grow. Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) warned that the increasing influence of money in politics threatens democratic values, noting that elections risk being decided by wealth rather than the will of the people if urgent reforms are not implemented.
In Ekiti State, the police have pledged to clamp down on vote-buying during the June 20, 2026 governorship election.
The command assured residents that it has strategies in place to tackle electoral offences and maintain order, acknowledging that elections often attract criminal elements seeking to manipulate the process.
Meanwhile, the International Press Centre (IPC), alongside partners, has engaged journalists and stakeholders in dialogue on credible elections.
The initiative emphasised the role of media professionalism, voter education, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in strengthening electoral transparency and public trust.