Pressure is building on the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as calls grow for its chairman, Joash Amupitan, to step aside amid concerns over the credibility of the electoral process.

One of the latest voices is activist Aisha Yesufu, who on Saturday publicly backed demands for Amupitan’s removal, citing what she described as perceived partisanship in the conduct of the commission’s affairs.

Speaking via her social media platform, Yesufu said the call reflects a broader shift in civic engagement, noting that more Nigerians are now actively scrutinising institutions responsible for safeguarding democracy.

Her position, she explained, is rooted in the belief that electoral bodies must not only be independent but also be seen to operate without bias, especially as political activities ahead of future elections begin to gather momentum.

The activist, who is affiliated with the African Democratic Congress, ADC, also suggested that recent developments involving the commission have raised questions that require urgent attention, warning that public trust could be eroded if such concerns are not addressed transparently.

While INEC has yet to formally respond to the growing calls, observers say the development highlights increasing public demand for accountability and institutional integrity within Nigeria’s electoral system.

Yesufu further emphasised that sustained citizen participation remains critical, adding that small, consistent actions by the public can influence larger democratic outcomes over time.

The situation comes at a time when political parties and stakeholders are preparing for future electoral contests, with analysts noting that confidence in the electoral umpire will play a decisive role in shaping the credibility and acceptance of upcoming elections.