Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has raised fresh concerns over the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), questioning both the credibility of its chairman and the timing of recent public criticism surrounding his appointment.
Sowore made the remarks during an interview aired by SYMFONI TV on Monday, April 13, 2026, where he addressed the growing controversy involving INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan. The debate has intensified in recent days following claims linked to a social media account allegedly associated with the electoral chief, which critics say reflects political bias.
During the interview, Sowore insisted that his concerns about the INEC chairman were not new, noting that he had previously raised red flags about the appointment based on his personal observations and interactions.
In Sowore’s words, “This whole noise they are making about that INEC chairman. I’d already spoken about it. I told you that his chief security officer was appointed by somebody in the villa. His spokesperson was up — this was a month ago. When I went to meet with him, I came out and told you that this man cannot be trusted,” Sowore stated.
His comments suggest that the current wave of criticism may be delayed, as he argued that warning signs regarding the chairman’s perceived political alignment had been evident earlier.
Sowore further questioned why many critics are only now speaking out, particularly as discussions surrounding the 2027 general elections begin to gain momentum in Nigeria.
“So you have just now found your voice and you are shouting, oh this man is on Twitter, he is supporting Tinubu,” he added, referencing allegations that the chairman may have shown support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through online activity.
The controversy has fueled broader debates about the neutrality and independence of INEC, an institution widely regarded as central to Nigeria’s democratic process. Analysts note that public confidence in the electoral body is critical, especially as political activities ahead of the next general elections gradually begin to take shape.