The Digest:
INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan has rejected claims that the commission is being used to create a one-party state in favour of President Bola Tinubu ahead of 2027. Speaking on Friday, he said Nigeria remains a multi-party state recognised by the constitution. He cited the recent FCT area council elections, where about ten political parties participated. On disputes within ADC and PDP, he explained that INEC is following a Court of Appeal preservatory order (status quo antebellum) and will not bow to political pressure.
Key Points:
- Amupitan's denial aims to reassure Nigerians about INEC's independence.
- The FCT elections example suggests multi-party competition still exists.
- Court orders, not political pressure, now guide INEC's disputed decisions.
- Opposition fears of a one-party state may persist despite the chairman's denial.
- Expeditious court rulings could resolve leadership disputes faster.
Watch whether the Federal High Court accelerates hearings on ADC and PDP leadership cases, and if opposition parties accept INEC's legalistic stance.
Sources: Channels, Vanguard
