2027: INEC Speaks On Tinubu’s Academic Credentials, Atiku’s Candidacy

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it is yet to receive Certified True Copies (CTCs) of recent Federal High Court judgments concerning the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the candidacy of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, and the court order regarding President Bola Tinubu’s academic credentials.

Speaking at a news conference in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, clarified that the commission strictly relies on verified legal documentation rather than unverified reports circulating online.

“As of today, I have not received a certified true copy of the judgment of the Federal High Court because we don’t just act on the basis of what is on social media,” Amupitan stated.

Highlighting the procedural workflow of the commission, he added, “Normally, when we receive a judgment like that, it comes to the commission, first to the chairman, who asks for expert advice from the relevant department before it is taken to the commission for review.”

Addressing questions regarding the court order instructing him to produce President Tinubu’s election documents and credentials from 1999 and 2023, Amupitan noted that he would only take official action once formally served with the court process.

“I have not received the order. So, when I receive the order, I will look at what the order says and then know what to do accordingly,” he noted.

Responding to calls for early voting provisions for essential workers, including journalists, security operatives, and election personnel, the INEC Chairman explained that the proposal remains limited by current laws.

He revealed that while INEC previously initiated proposals for early voting during the Electoral Act amendment process, the National Assembly did not incorporate the provisions into the statutory framework. He assured that the commission would continue advocacy to make early voting a legal reality.

Furthermore, Amupitan confirmed that 54 registration officers recently implicated in sabotaging voter registration procedures were full-time INEC staff, reiterating that the electoral body will not cover up misconduct within its ranks.