By Ejire Folakunmi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed claims that its Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, operates or has ever used an account on X (formerly Twitter), describing the allegation as false and misleading.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Mr. Adedayo Oketola, the Commission said the viral claim suggesting that the INEC Chairman endorsed a partisan post on the platform was “entirely baseless” and a fabrication.

INEC clarified that Prof. Amupitan does not own or operate any personal account on X and has never engaged in partisan commentary or political activity in either his private or official capacity.

The Commission described the circulation of the alleged post as a coordinated attempt to undermine the Chairman’s integrity and the neutrality of the electoral body, particularly at a time it is focused on electoral reforms and preparations for upcoming polls.

INEC further raised concerns over the activities of cybercriminals who have reportedly created fake social media accounts in the Chairman’s name to mislead and defraud members of the public.

It noted that several such accounts had previously been identified and reported to security agencies, adding that the latest incident reflects a continuing pattern of digital impersonation and misinformation.

The Commission said it is working with security agencies and cyber-intelligence units to track those responsible for the alleged identity theft and false publications.

It warned that individuals found culpable would face prosecution under the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalises identity theft and the spread of forged or manipulated digital content.

INEC urged the public to disregard the claim and rely only on verified institutional channels for official information regarding the Commission and its leadership.

The electoral body reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections, stating that it remains focused on its constitutional mandate despite attempts to discredit its leadership.