Kogi Youths Take To Streets, Reject ‘Political Targeting’ Of INEC Chair Amupitan
In a climate of growing political tension ahead of key off-cycle elections, concerns over the independence of Nigeria’s electoral system are once again taking centre stage.
Hundreds of youths in Aiyetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, staged a protest on Monday, alleging a politically motivated attempt to undermine the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The demonstrators, drawn from youth and civil society groups, marched through major streets chanting solidarity songs and waving placards bearing messages such as “Enemies of Fairness, Beware!” and “Fair Elections Start with Amupitan.”
They expressed strong support for INEC’s independence and confidence in its Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan.
Speaking during the protest, a youth leader identified as Segun declared that any attempt to “blackmail” or unjustly remove Amupitan would be resisted.
He described the INEC chairman as a man of integrity and warned that undermining him would amount to an attack on democracy itself.
The protest comes amid national debates over the appointment of new INEC National Commissioners, with some groups raising concerns over alleged political affiliations.
However, the Kogi youths dismissed such claims as “sponsored propaganda,” insisting that Amupitan’s legal pedigree and professional record position him to strengthen electoral credibility.
Meanwhile, INEC has firmly rejected calls for the chairman’s removal, describing them as unconstitutional and a threat to its independence.
In a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary Adedayo Oketola, the Commission emphasised that its leadership is guided strictly by constitutional provisions, particularly Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
INEC also maintained that its actions—ranging from compliance with court rulings to decisions on party matters—are rooted in the rule of law, stressing its commitment to free, fair and credible elections.
With crucial elections in Ekiti and Osun states approaching, scrutiny of the Commission’s leadership is expected to intensify, even as supporters rally to defend its autonomy.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n