INEC Denounces Fake Social Media Claim, Reaffirms Chairman’s Neutrality Amid Rising Impersonation Concerns

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly rejected allegations that its Chairman, Joash Amupitan, endorsed a partisan political post on the social media platform X. The commission described the claim as entirely false, misleading, and part of a calculated attempt to undermine public confidence in the electoral body.

In an official statement released on Friday by the Chairman’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, INEC characterized the allegation as a “malicious and coordinated campaign” designed to damage the credibility and neutrality of its leadership. The commission emphasized that the purported endorsement was fabricated and had no basis in reality.

INEC Rejects Claims of Political Bias

INEC categorically stated that its chairman has never operated a personal account on X and has not engaged in any form of partisan political commentary. According to the commission, the narrative suggesting otherwise is a deliberate falsehood intended to mislead the public.

The statement stressed that the alleged post was a “figment of the imagination” of those spreading it, adding that such misinformation risks eroding trust in democratic institutions. INEC reiterated that its leadership remains strictly non-partisan in both public and private conduct.

Officials further noted that the timing of the claim appeared strategic, potentially aimed at creating doubt about the commission’s impartiality at a sensitive period in the electoral cycle. The commission warned that such tactics, if left unchecked, could have broader implications for public confidence in electoral processes.

Rising Threat of Cyber Impersonation

Beyond dismissing the specific allegation, INEC raised alarm over increasing incidents of cybercriminals impersonating the chairman online. The commission revealed that several fake social media accounts have been created using Amupitan’s identity to deceive and defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.

According to the statement, these fraudulent activities have already been reported to relevant security agencies. INEC confirmed that it is actively collaborating with law enforcement to track down those responsible and ensure they are prosecuted.

The commission highlighted that identity theft and the spread of false digital content constitute serious offences under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act. It warned that individuals found guilty would face the full extent of the law, underscoring its zero-tolerance stance on digital impersonation and misinformation.

INEC Call for Public Vigilance and Trust in Official Channels

INEC urged citizens to remain cautious and to verify information through its official and verified communication channels. It advised the public to disregard any claims or posts attributed to the chairman outside these platforms.

The commission reassured Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to conducting credible, transparent, and fair elections. Despite the distraction posed by misinformation, INEC stated that it remains focused on its constitutional mandate.

Reaffirming its dedication to neutrality, the electoral body emphasized that safeguarding public trust is central to its mission. It called on stakeholders, including the media and the public, to play a role in curbing the spread of false information.