The Independent National Electoral Commission has rejected calls for the removal of its Chairman, Joash Amupitan, stating that such demands have no legal basis. The Commission said its leadership is protected by the Constitution and cannot be removed through political pressure.

In a statement, INEC explained that its decisions are guided strictly by the law. It noted that the appointment and removal of its officials follow clear constitutional provisions, not public opinion or partisan demands.

The Commission also defended its decision to comply with a recent Court of Appeal judgment. It said obeying court rulings is necessary to maintain order and avoid legal complications, referencing past situations where non-compliance led to serious consequences.

INEC further clarified its position on political party matters, saying it would not interfere in internal disputes. It stressed that it remains a neutral body and will not act as a tool for resolving party conflicts.

On the planned voter revalidation exercise, the Commission said the process is meant to improve the accuracy of the voter register. It explained that the exercise is not new registration but a way to clean and update existing voter data nationwide.

The electoral body reaffirmed its commitment to free and fair elections, adding that it remains focused on upcoming polls in Ekiti State and Osun State. It urged the public to ignore what it called misleading claims and trust the electoral process.