Calls for the premature resignation of CENI President – ​​Oluwafemi

A public affairs analyst and development consultant, Oluwafemi, has described calls for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, as premature, urging for due process to be respected.

In a statement he signed, Oluwafemi said that while accountability is vital, calls for his resignation must be based on verifiable violations and not on political pressure or public unrest.

He warned that recent positions by groups such as the African Democratic Congress and the Supreme Shari’ah Council in Nigeria could set a precedent where the leadership of key institutions is influenced outside of constitutional procedures.

According to him, Nigeria’s laws clearly define how an INEC chairman can be removed, stressing that complaints should be subjected to judicial review rather than media campaigns.

Oluwafemi also warned against inflammatory rhetoric, stressing that irresponsible public comments could increase political tensions and undermine trust in institutions.

He urged political actors, socio-religious groups and media commentators to demonstrate restraint and promote responsible discourse.

“This is not a defense of any individual, but of due process and democratic stability. Where there is credible evidence, it must be tested through legal channels,” he said.

He added that calls for his resignation remain premature until constitutional procedures are followed.