Activist Mahdi Shehu has intensified pressure on the leadership of Nigeria’s electoral body, calling for the immediate resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over allegations of bias and misconduct.
Shehu made the call in a post on X on Monday, where he accused the INEC chairman of actions he said were damaging public confidence in the commission ahead of key electoral processes.
He warned that continued silence from political leadership could deepen mistrust in the electoral system, describing the situation as a serious threat to democratic credibility.
In his post, Shehu wrote, “Either BAT and Amupitan do not understand the gravity of the situation surrounding the INEC chairman’s current scandal, or they are testing the patience of Nigerians.”
He also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s silence on growing calls for the removal of the electoral chief, arguing that the lack of response was worsening public suspicion.
“BAT has decided to remain silent and mute on the genuine calls for the INEC chairman to resign in the overriding interest of democracy,” he added.
Shehu further alleged that controversies surrounding the INEC chairman’s social media presence had raised questions about accountability and transparency, including claims of disputed online accounts and shifting explanations.
He argued that the electoral chief’s defence had not addressed public concerns, insisting that the explanations offered were insufficient to restore confidence.
“INEC chairman may deploy all the tactics at his disposal but resign he will because there is no option to that,” Shehu stated.
He further warned that failure to act on the matter could carry political consequences, adding that both the presidency and the electoral commission risk deeper public backlash if the situation persists.
According to him, growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians reflects a broader loss of trust in the leadership of the electoral body, which he described as biased and lacking integrity.
Shehu concluded that ethical standards must be upheld in public office, stressing that accountability remains essential to preserving democratic institutions.
