TDThe South East Patriots (SEP) has urgently called on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and all genuine opposition forces in Nigeria to pass a vote of no confidence in the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN.
SEP made the call in a press release issued by its National Coordinator, Chief Obunike Ohaegbu.
Chief Ohaegbu noted that according to INEC’s official records, Amupitan assumed office on 23 October 2025.
He expressed alarm by INEC’s abrupt decision to cease recognition of the contending ADC leadership factions and to withdraw from monitoring their meetings, congresses, and conventions.
South East Patriots Kick Against INEC’s Bogus Claim
INEC claimed that the move stems from its review of the Court of Appeal ruling in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026, following receipt of conflicting letters regarding the ADC dispute.
“This action is deeply troubling.
“It raises grave concerns about INEC’s impartiality and suggests an attempt to frustrate the ADC at a critical political juncture.
“By adopting such a sweeping position while the matter remains politically and legally unsettled, INEC appears intent on stalling the ADC, disrupting its internal processes, and weakening the momentum of Nigerians rallying behind an alternative political platform,” Ohaegbu said.
Ohaegbu Accuses Amupitan of Colluding with APC
The South East Patriots further expressed belief that this cannot be separated from the broader political climate.
This includes the ruling APC’s sudden overtures to opposition figures and its evident unease over the ADC’s growing appeal nationwide.
With the APC already wielding vast state power and enjoying the backing of numerous governors, Nigeria requires fairness and a level playing field—not institutional intimidation, Ohaegbu interjected.
He regretted that the conduct of Amupitan has exposed his bias too soon.
Analysts pointed out that an electoral commission must inspire trust, not weaponise court processes in ways that fuel perceptions of political interference.
Selective Adherence to Court Orders
INEC’s own statement confirms it will strictly adhere to the Court of Appeal’s orders, refraining from engaging either faction or monitoring their activities until the case is resolved.
However, Supreme Court of Nigeria, delivering a landmark judgment, stressed that courts lack jurisdiction to interfere in matters purely internal to political parties.
South East Patriots, therefore, urged the leadership of ADC to take a principled stand.
“No party committed to rescuing Nigeria should remain silent when the electoral umpire undermines neutrality and fairness.
“Silence will only embolden further interference. The time to act is now.
“The ADC must declare its lack of confidence in the current Amupitan-led INEC leadership and affirm that democracy cannot thrive under a compromised umpire,” the South East Patriots added.
