Odinkalu Alleges Pressure on INEC Over ADC Court Ruling Interpretation

Former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Chidi Odinkalu, has alleged undue pressure on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following its recent interpretation of a Court of Appeal ruling involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Reacting via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Odinkalu claimed that INEC’s position was influenced by high-level engagements involving senior officials of the commission, the Presidency, and judicial institutions, including the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court.

He further alleged that the INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, had a pre-signed resignation letter, which he claimed was used as leverage to compel the issuance of the commission’s statement. However, Odinkalu did not provide evidence to substantiate the claim.

Odinkalu also questioned INEC’s role in interpreting court judgments, arguing that such responsibility lies solely with the judiciary. He stated that if there were ambiguities in the ruling, the commission should have sought clarification from the appellate court rather than issuing its own interpretation.

“It should be evident… that it is not the business of INEC to interpret the decision of the Court of Appeal,” he wrote.

He warned that the situation reflects deeper concerns about Nigeria’s democratic trajectory ahead of the NigeriaDecides2027, suggesting that only key actors willing to confront or enable such developments will fully grasp the stakes involved.

As of press time, INEC has not responded to the allegations raised by Odinkalu. The claims also remain unverified, adding to the growing debate over institutional independence and electoral integrity in Nigeria.