The Odua People’s Assembly (OPA), on Thursday, expressed strong concern over the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that the appointment could undermine Nigeria’s democratic stability.

OPA also urged civil society groups, advocacy organisations, and citizens to remain vigilant and engaged, noting that defending democracy requires active public participation and accountability.

In a statement by its Chairman, Richard Olatunji Kayode, the group said the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system must not be compromised, stressing that the choice of who leads INEC carries significant implications for democracy, justice, and the rule of law.

He said: “We believe that the integrity of our electoral processes is paramount to the sustenance of democracy in our nation, and any actions that threaten this integrity must be met with vigilance and resistance.

“A coalition of over 1,000 lawyers, operating under the auspices of the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP), has voiced its opposition to Professor Amupitan’s nomination.

“Their collective legal expertise underscores the gravity of the situation, as they have called upon the Senate to reject this nomination. The Odua People’s Assembly aligns itself with this coalition, recognising the potential ramifications of allowing a figure perceived to be complicit in undermining our democratic processes to assume such a critical position.

“Recent reports have surfaced alleging a troubling collaboration between Professor Amupitan and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. This perceived connivance raises serious questions regarding their commitment to maintaining the sanctity of electoral integrity and the democratic framework that governs our beloved nation.

“The OPA firmly believes that any attempt to sabotage the electoral process is not only an affront to the democratic aspirations of the Nigerian people but also a betrayal of the trust placed in public officials.

“The essence of democracy lies in the ability of citizens to freely express their will through the ballot box. Any actions designed to manipulate, undermine, or obstruct this fundamental right must be scrutinised and opposed with the utmost seriousness.

“It is imperative that the Senate, as the custodian of our democratic principles, carefully considers the implications of endorsing an individual whose integrity and commitment to fair electoral practices have been called into question.

“The Odua People’s Assembly is particularly concerned about the potential consequences of such an appointment in a nation where the scars of electoral malfeasance are still fresh in the collective memory of its citizens.”

The group reiterated the need for transparency and accountability, warning that the public’s confidence in INEC could be severely damaged if concerns surrounding Professor Amupitan’s nomination are ignored.

He added, “We recall the tumultuous elections of the past, marked by violence, intimidation, and widespread disenfranchisement. Allowing individuals who may be complicit in such actions to lead the very institution tasked with overseeing free and fair elections would be tantamount to inviting chaos into our electoral processes.

“Furthermore, the OPA emphasises the need for transparency and accountability in the electoral system. The nomination of Professor Amupitan, coupled with the alleged collusion with Minister Wike, raises alarms about the potential erosion of public confidence in INEC.

“Trust in electoral institutions is essential for the legitimacy of any democratic government. If the public perceives that the leadership of INEC is compromised, the very foundation of our democracy may be at risk.

“In light of these concerns, we call upon the Senate to act decisively in the interest of the Nigerian people. It is imperative that the legislative body conducts a thorough investigation into the allegations against Professor Amupitan and his relationship with Minister Wike.

“The Senate must uphold its duty to ensure that only those individuals who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to democratic principles are entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing our electoral processes.”

OPA further urged civil society, advocacy groups, and citizens to remain alert and actively involved in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy, adding that, “We must collectively raise our voices against any actions that threaten democratic norms and advocate for a transparent and credible electoral process.

“The Odua People’s Assembly stands resolute in its commitment to safeguarding the democratic values that underpin our society. We call upon the Senate to heed the warnings of the legal community and reject the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as INEC Chairman.

“Let us work together to ensure that our electoral processes remain free, fair, and reflective of the will of the people. The future of our democracy depends on our collective action today.”