The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appealed to the Senate to exercise transparency and due process in the screening of Prof. Joash Amupitan, President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Debo Ologunagba, made the call at a press briefing on Friday in Abuja.
He advised Prof. Amupitan to focus on strengthening democracy and restoring citizens’ faith in the nation’s electoral system.
Ologunagba emphasised the importance of institutional integrity, noting that credible elections depend on strong, independent, and accountable systems.
“The Senate and the nominee must appreciate that INEC plays a defining role in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the Senate would carry out its responsibility diligently and that Amupitan, if confirmed, would act with fairness and national interest in mind.
“INEC must regain Nigerians’ trust by guaranteeing credible and transparent polls,” Ologunagba stated.
He urged Amupitan to understand that Nigerians expect improved performance and accountability from the commission.
“Democracy, though imperfect, remains the surest path to national development,” he said.
On reports suggesting that Enugu State Governor, Mr. Peter Mbah, may defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ologunagba said the PDP’s strength lies in its structures, not individuals.
He described the PDP as a people-oriented party built on sound policies, practical programmes, and democratic values.
“The recent defections have nothing to do with ideology; they are mostly products of pressure and political intimidation,” he said.
He maintained that the 2027 general elections would be decided by the will of ordinary Nigerians rather than political elites.
“It will be about citizens struggling with daily challenges, from food insecurity to healthcare costs,” he added.
Ologunagba expressed confidence that Nigerians yearning for genuine change would continue to align with the PDP’s vision of unity and progress.
He confirmed that the party’s national convention is scheduled to hold in Ibadan on Nov. 15 and 16.
According to him, the PDP has taken steps to ensure the exercise is inclusive, transparent, and fully compliant with constitutional provisions.