Hundreds of young people in Aiyetoro Gbede, located in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, came together on Monday in a peaceful demonstration expressing support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its current leadership under Chairman Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN).

The gathering, which drew participants from various youth groups and civil society organisations within the community, was marked by a procession through major parts of the town. The youths moved in groups, some on motorcycles, while others walked on foot carrying placards and banners with messages defending the integrity of the electoral body.

According to the participants, the rally was organised to show confidence in INEC and to respond to what they described as politically motivated allegations targeting its leadership.

Youths Defend INEC Leadership

During the demonstration, the protesters strongly rejected allegations circulating about the INEC chairman, insisting that such claims were intended to damage his reputation and weaken public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Placards displayed during the march carried bold messages such as “Enemies of Fairness, Beware!” and “Fair Elections Start with Amupitan,” reflecting the mood and purpose of the gathering.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, a youth leader identified as Segun explained that the demonstration was not only about defending the INEC chairman personally but also about protecting the credibility of the institution he represents.

He stated that INEC plays a critical role in safeguarding democracy in Nigeria and must be shielded from unnecessary political attacks.

According to him, “We are here to send a clear message that the sanctity of INEC must be protected. Professor Amupitan is a man of integrity and a proud son of this land. Any attempt to tarnish his image unjustly is an attack on democracy itself.”

Segun further described the allegations against the INEC chairman as politically motivated propaganda designed to create distrust in the electoral system.

He added that Amupitan’s background as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) positions him as a capable figure who can help strengthen electoral transparency and credibility.

Rising Debate Around Electoral Leadership

The protest comes amid growing national discussions about the leadership of INEC, with different political voices expressing contrasting views on the commission’s direction and the conduct of its leadership.

In recent weeks, there have been renewed calls from some quarters demanding changes within the electoral body. These demands have sparked debates across political and civic spaces, with opinions divided between those calling for reform and others defending the current structure.

Supporters of the INEC chairman, including the youths in Kogi State, argue that such calls are unnecessary and could potentially destabilise the electoral process at a time when stability is needed ahead of future elections.

They insist that the focus should remain on strengthening democratic institutions rather than creating distractions through unverified allegations.

INEC Responds to Criticism

In response to the ongoing debate, the Independent National Electoral Commission has firmly dismissed calls for the removal of its chairman, describing such demands as unconstitutional and contrary to established legal procedures.

In an official statement issued by the commission’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, INEC clarified that the appointment and removal of its leadership are strictly governed by Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The commission emphasised that any attempt to bypass constitutional provisions in the process of removing its chairman would amount to a direct threat to the independence of the electoral body.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections across Nigeria, stating that it would continue to operate within the boundaries of the law regardless of external pressure or public debate.

Denial of Political Bias

The electoral body also addressed concerns regarding alleged political bias, firmly denying accusations that it favours any political party or interest group.

According to INEC, its operations are guided strictly by legal frameworks and democratic principles, and it continues to engage with all registered political parties equally.

The commission stressed that maintaining neutrality is central to its mandate and that all electoral processes are designed to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all contestants.

It also reiterated that ongoing criticisms should not overshadow the progress being made in strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system.

Voter Revalidation Exercise Explained

INEC further clarified details about its planned voter revalidation exercise, describing it as a routine administrative process aimed at improving the accuracy and credibility of the national voter register.

The commission explained that the exercise is intended to correct errors, eliminate duplicate entries, and ensure that voter information remains up to date ahead of upcoming elections.

It added that such exercises are standard practice in electoral management and should not be misinterpreted as politically driven activities.

INEC urged the public to participate fully in the process, noting that an accurate voter register is essential for credible elections.

Growing Attention Ahead of Upcoming Elections

The development comes at a time when political activities are gradually intensifying ahead of off-cycle governorship elections in states such as Ekiti and Osun.

With increased attention on INEC’s role, stakeholders continue to debate issues surrounding electoral transparency, institutional independence, and public confidence in the electoral process.

Observers note that the credibility of future elections will largely depend on how well INEC maintains neutrality and manages voter trust in the system.

Conclusion

The peaceful rally held in Kogi State highlights the growing engagement of young people in national political and democratic conversations, particularly around the integrity of electoral institutions.

While supporters of the INEC chairman have dismissed the allegations against him as unfounded, the wider debate about electoral credibility and institutional trust continues to attract attention across the country.

As Nigeria approaches another cycle of important elections, the role of INEC remains central to democratic stability. Both supporters and critics agree on one key point: the need to protect the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that democracy is strengthened rather than weakened.

The Kogi youths’ demonstration, therefore, reflects not only local support but also a broader national conversation about trust, governance, and the future of Nigeria’s elections.

Fair elections start with Amupitan, Kogi youths march in support of INE