The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, endorsed a partisan message on X (formerly Twitter).
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, the Commission described the allegation as completely false, unfounded, and deliberately fabricated.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the INEC Chairman does not operate or maintain any personal account on X. At no time has he engaged in partisan commentary or associated himself with any political activity in either his official or private capacity,” the statement said.
INEC further explained that the alleged post was an attempt to undermine the credibility and neutrality of the Commission at a time when it is actively preparing for upcoming elections and implementing key electoral reforms. It added that such claims were designed to create unnecessary public distrust in the electoral body.
The Commission also warned that fraudsters have, in the past, created fake social media accounts in the Chairman’s name to mislead and defraud unsuspecting members of the public. It noted that several of such accounts had already been identified and reported to security agencies.
According to INEC, identity theft and the spread of fabricated or manipulated online content constitute offences under the Cybercrimes Act, stressing that those responsible will be tracked and prosecuted.
It urged Nigerians to disregard the false report and rely only on information released through its verified official communication channels and press statements.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, stating that it remains focused and undistracted in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.
INEC Debunks Claims of Chairman’s Alleged X Account, Warns Against Fake Posts
