A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, to remain resolute in the face of intimidation from politicians. Oyintiloye, who served on the APC Presidential Campaign Council, made this statement while addressing newsmen in Osogbo on Sunday.

As the country approaches off-cycle and general elections, Oyintiloye emphasized the importance of the INEC chairman demonstrating courage and integrity. He advised Amupitan to resist undue pressure from politicians, particularly those from opposition parties, who may attempt to discredit the electoral process. According to Oyintiloye, the commission must adhere to established rules and regulations to ensure the conduct of free and fair elections.

Oyintiloye cautioned that the commission’s integrity is under scrutiny, and Amupitan must ignore negative criticism and apply the rules without favoritism. He noted that those who have lost elections may try to undermine the commission’s efforts for personal gain, but the INEC chairman must remain steadfast.

The APC chieftain commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Amupitan, describing the choice as a testament to the latter’s integrity and honor. Oyintiloye expressed confidence in Amupitan’s ability to sanitize the country’s electoral process. The upcoming Anambra governorship election in November and the 2026 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun will serve as a litmus test for Amupitan’s leadership.

As the electoral commission prepares for these crucial elections, Oyintiloye’s advice highlights the importance of independence and transparency in the electoral process. The INEC chairman’s ability to withstand pressure and ensure the conduct of credible elections will be closely watched by Nigerians and the international community. With the country’s democratic development at stake, Amupitan’s leadership will play a critical role in shaping the nation’s electoral landscape.