Human Rights Lawyer Says Amupitan’s INEC ‘Failed Woefully’ in FCT Election

INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan

Human Rights Lawyer Says Amupitan’s INEC ‘Failed Woefully’ in FCT Election

Human rights lawyer and former Chidi Odinkalu, has expressed strong doubts about the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under Chairman Joash Amupitan to conduct credible 2027 general elections. Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Odinkalu criticised the commission’s handling of the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections, declaring that “INEC failed.” He said, “Amupitan’s INEC failed woefully. On this evidence, nobody can trust Joash Amupitan to organise credible elections in 2027. It is not about the law; it is about the failure of will and the failure of electoral administration.”

Odinkalu pointed to poor logistics, including late deployment of election materials and personnel, as well as voter reassignment without adequate notice of polling unit changes on election day. He argued that these administrative lapses risked disenfranchising voters and undermined public confidence in the electoral process. He urged INEC officials to either adequately prepare for their responsibilities or step aside for “more capable hands.” Odinkalu also rejected arguments that it might be too early to assess Amupitan, noting that the chairman previously oversaw a governorship election in Anambra State, which provides a measure of his track record.

READ ALSO:

“The commission must acknowledge its shortcomings, apologise to Nigerians, and take personal responsibility for lapses,” Odinkalu said. “Nigerians are not asking for perfection, but they want to see sincerity and concrete steps toward improvement.” Political analysts say Odinkalu’s remarks reflect broader concerns about INEC’s credibility and readiness to conduct nationwide elections. Parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) highlighted issues with pre-election curfews, logistics, and voter management, while civil society groups like the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) criticised the FCT minister and INEC for actions that may have undermined the polls.

INEC, for its part, defended its operations, highlighting voter registration technology, election officer training, and electronic result transmission as evidence of improved procedures. Nevertheless, critics maintain that the commission must address systemic gaps to restore confidence ahead of 2027. With Nigeria’s 2027 elections approaching, Odinkalu’s comments underscore the urgent need for INEC to enhance transparency, improve voter communication, and strengthen election logistics. Observers stress that rebuilding trust in the electoral system is essential for national stability and the credibility of future elections.