Prominent legal scholar Chidi Anselm Odinkalu has alleged that the decision by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, to withdraw recognition from the African Democratic Congress National Working Committee led by David Mark was influenced by external pressure.
In a post on his X handle, Odinkalu claimed that Amupitan had allegedly signed a pre-resignation letter as a condition for his appointment, which was later used as leverage.
“I have it on the most impeccable authority that there is a pre-signed resignation letter by Chairman Amupitan. It was a pre-condition for his appointment. Ultimately, that had to be called in aid by those who persuaded him to issue this release. The threat of releasing it did the magic,” he wrote.
He further alleged that INEC’s decision came about 60 hours after senior officials of the commission met with the Presidency, as well as justices of the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court.
Odinkalu criticised the electoral body for interpreting a judgment of the appellate court, insisting that such responsibility rests solely with the judiciary.
“It is not the business of INEC to interpret the decision of the Court of Appeal,” he said, adding that any uncertainty should have been referred back to the court for clarification.
The legal scholar said the development raises concerns about institutional boundaries and adherence to due process within Nigeria’s democratic system.
Beyond the immediate controversy, Odinkalu warned of what he described as a broader plan to influence the outcome of the 2027 general elections by limiting political competition.
He alleged a coordinated effort involving INEC, elements within the judiciary, and the All Progressives Congress to sideline viable opposition parties.
According to him, the only opposition platform that may be allowed to operate alongside the ruling party is the Peoples Democratic Party, which he linked to political influence from Nyesom Wike.
Odinkalu warned that such a scenario could undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process and pose risks to democratic stability.
INEC had earlier announced the withdrawal of recognition for the David Mark-led ADC leadership, citing a Court of Appeal judgment in the party’s ongoing leadership dispute.
