INEC clarifies Chairman Amupitan's absence and details PWD voter data

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has addressed inquiries regarding the absence of its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, from Abuja. Following concerns raised by the Obidient Movement about the lack of public communication regarding his whereabouts, INEC clarified that Amupitan is currently on official international assignments. This includes participating in the Global Conference on Responsible AI and Elections in Ottawa, Canada, and holding meetings with Microsoft and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems. During his absence, National Commissioner Prof. Rhoda Gumus has been performing duties as Acting Chairman, including hosting an African Union delegation.

In a separate strategic effort, INEC is focusing on inclusivity for the 2027 general elections. The commission held a national engagement with the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) and other disability organizations to improve voter education and mobilization. INEC reported that 137,487 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are currently captured in its voter data. This figure includes 30,561 persons with albinism, 19,430 with physical impairments, 13,080 who are visually impaired, and 9,299 who are hearing-impaired. The commission pledged to strengthen collaboration with disability groups to ensure an accessible and participatory electoral process.