{By TOBIAS EKIRIKA, Onitsha}
Chief (Barr) Ben Uzuegbu (SAN), an esteemed lawyer based in Onitsha, has voiced significant concerns regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan’s ability to conduct fair elections in Nigeria for the 2027 elections.
It has been noted that many Nigerians from various backgrounds have urged Amupitan to step down due to accusations of partiality, conflicts of interest, and contentious decisions made by the commission in political party matters.
Political critics suggest that Amupitan has shown favoritism towards the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing his previous role as the party’s lead lawyer during the 2023 presidential election proceedings.
These claims gained traction following the circulation of alleged screenshots on X (formerly Twitter) that appeared to show a verified account under Amupitan’s name complimenting the APC during the recent elections.
In an interview with reporters in Onitsha, Chief Uzuegbu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), reiterated calls for Prof. Amupitan to resign immediately.
Uzuegbu remarked, “I must honestly say that the Prof. Amupitan I once knew is no longer the same since he joined INEC. I had a close relationship with him; he was exceptional—yet he changed abruptly upon taking up his role at INEC.
“For example, when the Appeal Court ordered ‘status quo ante bellum,’ how could a distinguished lawyer like Amupitan interpret that to mean removing the names of all ADC executives under David Mark from the INEC portal? I’m convinced Prof. Amupitan understands better than that, suggesting something is amiss.
“Moreover, after the court dismissed the PDP executives loyal to the FCT Minister, Wike, including the National Secretary, they proceeded to hold congresses, which were then recognized by the INEC chairman. This is why I assert that the Amupitan I once knew is not the same now. Politicians are attempting to tarnish the reputation he has built over the years. I stand with those calling for his resignation to preserve his good name.
“Since taking office, he has not conducted himself in a manner that suggests impartiality. No reasonable lawyer would endorse Prof. Amupitan’s actions at INEC. If he continues down this path, he risks jeopardizing the electoral process.
“As a fellow Senior Advocate of Nigeria, if I were in his position, I would resign to protect my reputation. His support for the APC is clear, as he has stated that the APC should be the ruling party. Given his interests favor the APC, he cannot serve as an unbiased electoral overseer. In my view, Amupitan has shown he is aligned with the APC before and continues to do so.”
When asked about the possibility of credible elections in 2027, Uzuegbu replied with skepticism, stating it is unlikely. He explained, “Given the current circumstances, the APC controls INEC, the police, and the army, and is attempting to influence the judiciary. With such dominance, I don’t foresee free, fair, or credible elections in 2027.”
