Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A wave of youth-led demonstrations swept through parts of Kogi State on Monday as supporters of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, took to the streets to protest what they described as an alleged plot to force him out of office. The protests, which were peaceful according to local reports, centered on calls for the electoral chief to be allowed to continue his duties without political interference, with demonstrators insisting that his leadership is crucial to ensuring credible elections in Nigeria.
The demonstrators, largely made up of young people from Aiyetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area, marched through major routes carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs. Their messages focused on defending the integrity of the electoral institution and rejecting what they termed politically motivated campaigns against the INEC leadership. Some of the inscriptions on placards praised Amupitan’s record in academia and public service, while others called on the federal government to ignore calls for his removal.
Professor Joash Amupitan, a legal scholar and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was appointed as INEC Chairman in October 2025 following approval by the National Council of State and confirmation by the Senate. His appointment followed the completion of the tenure of his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and a brief acting period by May Agbamuche-Mbu. Since assuming office, Amupitan has faced both support and criticism from different political and civic groups, reflecting the often contentious environment surrounding Nigeria’s electoral management body.
In Kogi, the protest was framed by organisers as a response to what they claimed were emerging attempts by unnamed political actors to undermine his leadership. Community leaders and youth representatives who addressed the gathering described Amupitan as a “man of integrity” and “a product of strong academic and professional discipline,” urging Nigerians to allow him to focus on reforms aimed at strengthening electoral credibility. They argued that destabilising the leadership of the commission could have negative consequences for preparations toward upcoming elections.
One of the speakers at the rally, a youth leader from the community, said the agitation was not politically partisan but rooted in concern for democratic stability. He maintained that INEC must remain independent and insulated from political pressure, warning that repeated calls for removal of electoral officials could erode public confidence in the system. He added that the community was standing in solidarity with the chairman as a son of the soil, given that Amupitan hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Kogi State.
The protest also highlighted broader national tensions around electoral administration in Nigeria, where leadership of INEC has historically been a focal point of political disputes. Over the years, successive chairmen have faced criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups over election conduct, logistics, and perceived impartiality. Similar controversies have trailed past administrations of the commission, including debates over electoral reforms, transmission of results, and the independence of the institution.
Amupitan’s supporters, however, argue that he represents a continuation of efforts to professionalise the commission and improve public trust. They pointed to his long academic career at the University of Jos, where he served in several leadership capacities including Dean of the Faculty of Law and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, as evidence of his administrative experience. His background in law, particularly in corporate governance and evidence law, has been cited by allies as relevant to overseeing an institution responsible for managing national elections.
During the Kogi demonstration, participants repeatedly emphasized the need for unity and political neutrality in electoral matters. They called on national stakeholders, including political parties and civil society organisations, to avoid actions that could destabilise INEC’s leadership at a time when attention is turning toward future elections. The protesters also urged the commission to intensify efforts to ensure transparency and fairness in electoral processes, stressing that public confidence in elections remains fragile.
Meanwhile, reactions to the protest have been mixed, with some observers interpreting it as a show of local solidarity rather than a broader national endorsement of the INEC leadership. Others have pointed out that demonstrations of support and opposition often emerge around key public institutions in Nigeria, particularly during periods of heightened political activity. The situation reflects the deeply polarised nature of electoral politics in the country, where perceptions of neutrality are frequently contested.
INEC itself has in the past dismissed calls for the removal of its leadership, describing such demands as an attack on its independence and a potential threat to democratic governance. The commission has consistently maintained that its mandate requires insulation from political pressure in order to conduct credible elections. This position has been echoed by various electoral stakeholders who argue that stability at the top of the commission is essential for effective planning and execution of electoral activities.
As Nigeria continues to prepare for future electoral cycles, the role of INEC and its leadership remains under close public scrutiny. The Kogi protest underscores the extent to which electoral administration has become a sensitive national issue, capable of mobilising grassroots reactions even at the community level. For now, the situation remains calm, but it reflects ongoing debates over trust, governance, and the independence of institutions responsible for safeguarding democracy in the country.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments