Kenneth Okonkwo, a lawyer and prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of showing bias in the way it handled internal issues concerning the party.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Okonkwo criticized INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan and called for his resignation, alleging that his conduct favored the ruling APC while undermining opposition parties.
According to Okonkwo:
“Amupitan, having displayed partisanship and questionable integrity in his handling of INEC matters in favour of the ruling APC and against the opposition parties, should resign forthwith and allow for the emergence of a neutral, qualified Nigerian to conduct the 2027 general elections. There will be no free, fair, and credible elections in 2027 with Amupitan as Chairman of INEC.”
The ADC chieftain faulted INEC’s interpretation of court rulings related to the party’s leadership structure. He argued that the commission wrongly suggested that the ADC lacked a legitimate leadership at a certain point, despite the existence of a preservatory court order intended to maintain the status quo until a final judgment is delivered.
Okonkwo maintained that such legal orders are meant to preserve existing arrangements and should not be interpreted in a manner that changes party leadership before the courts reach a final decision. He insisted that the ADC at no time operated without leadership.
He further alleged that the actions of the electoral body created doubts about its neutrality and gave the impression of interference capable of weakening opposition parties ahead of future elections.
Referring to recent judicial decisions, including a ruling by the Supreme Court, Okonkwo claimed that inconsistencies in the handling of the issue had become evident. Although he acknowledged that the party’s leadership status was later restored on official platforms, he argued that the earlier developments had already raised concerns about the credibility and fairness of the process……See More
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