A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has faulted supporters of Peter Obi—widely known as Obidients—accusing them of misrepresenting public narratives and showing little regard for prominent individuals.

Sowunmi made the remarks during an appearance on The Volume Pod, where he discussed the influence of political support groups in shaping public perception of key figures.

Referring to the late Doyin Okupe, he questioned the reactions that followed his death, suggesting that some responses reflected a lack of empathy and respect.

He argued that the manner in which certain narratives are pushed online can distort reality and negatively impact public discourse, particularly in a politically charged environment.

The PDP chieftain’s comments come amid ongoing conversations about the role and conduct of digital political movements, as well as their growing influence on national discussions.

Pressure is mounting on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, as demands intensify for him to step aside over concerns surrounding the credibility of the electoral system.

Among those adding their voice is activist Aisha Yesufu, who on Saturday endorsed calls for Amupitan’s removal, citing what she described as perceived bias in the commission’s operations.

In a statement shared عبر her social media platform, Yesufu noted that the growing demand reflects a broader rise in civic awareness, with more Nigerians actively holding democratic institutions accountable.

She stressed that electoral bodies must not only function independently but must also be widely perceived as impartial, particularly as political activities ahead of future elections begin to gain traction.

Yesufu, who is affiliated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), further pointed to recent developments involving INEC as issues that warrant urgent clarification, warning that failure to address them openly could weaken public confidence.

As of the time of reporting, INEC has not issued an official response to the increasing calls for the chairman’s resignation. However, observers say the situation underscores a rising demand for transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s electoral framework.

The activist also highlighted the importance of sustained citizen engagement, noting that consistent public participation can shape democratic outcomes over time.

The development comes as political parties and key stakeholders intensify preparations for upcoming elections, with analysts emphasising that trust in the electoral body will be crucial to the credibility and acceptance of the process.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Professor Joash Amupitan to resign as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning it may embark on civil disobedience if he remains in office.

The opposition party renewed its criticism of Amupitan following fresh allegations questioning his neutrality, adding to its earlier stance that the electoral chief has failed to meet expected standards.

Amupitan has recently come under scrutiny over claims linked to past social media posts, which allegedly suggest a bias in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In response to the controversy, Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, had earlier cautioned the public about impersonators and cybercriminals spreading false information through fake accounts. He reiterated that the commission under Amupitan remains committed to delivering free, fair, and credible elections, urging Nigerians to rely on official communication channels.

The debate intensified after US-based Nigerian academic Farooq Kperogi published a column alleging that archived posts from an X account bearing Amupitan’s name indicated pro-APC leanings, including remarks seen as supportive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Kperogi argued that such revelations could erode public trust in INEC’s impartiality and called for the chairman’s resignation.

The publication sparked widespread reactions online, with Nigerians divided over the authenticity and implications of the alleged posts.

Reacting on Saturday, ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi described the development as deeply troubling, saying it raises serious concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system.

He stated that in a democracy, the electoral umpire must not only be independent but must also be seen to be so beyond doubt, stressing that anything short of this undermines public confidence.

Abdullahi further alleged attempts to alter digital records tied to the controversy, describing it as a deliberate effort to distort facts and evade accountability.

According to him, the accumulation of allegations and evidence suggests that Amupitan has fallen short of the standards required of someone overseeing elections, insisting that his continued stay in office would damage democratic integrity.

He said the party would escalate its actions, including updating petitions to relevant institutions such as foreign bodies and the Nigerian Bar Association.

Abdullahi added that the ADC is prepared to intensify civil disobedience until Amupitan steps down, warning that anything less would set a dangerous precedent for the country’s democracy.