The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is under renewed scrutiny following demands for transparency in its recent forensic investigation into an alleged X (formerly Twitter) account linked to its Chairman, Joash Amupitan.

A civil society group, Foundation for Digital Justice, has formally requested detailed disclosures regarding the forensic cybersecurity expert reportedly engaged by the electoral body to conduct the probe.

FOI Request Demands Full Disclosure

In a Freedom of Information (FOI) request dated April 21 and addressed to the INEC chairman, the organisation called for the release of a certified true copy of the full forensic report. It also demanded the identity and professional profile of the independent expert or firm commissioned for the investigation.

The group further requested access to the letter of engagement or service agreement outlining the scope of work, as well as procurement records, payment details, and internal documentation confirming completion of the assignment.

According to the foundation, the information should be provided within seven days, in line with provisions of the FOI Act 2011.

INEC Maintains Account Was Fake

The development follows INEC’s announcement earlier this week that a forensic investigation found the X account, @joashamupitan, to be fake and “forensically unverifiable.”

INEC stated that the probe involved a “multi-layered forensic and digital investigation” using platform data from X (Twitter), internet archive records, open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools, identity forensics, and cross-platform analysis.

Controversy Originates from Viral Screenshots

The controversy began on April 10, when social media users circulated screenshots allegedly showing the INEC chairman operating the account and making a partisan comment — “Victory is sure” — in response to a post by Dayo Israel, National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Additional screenshots containing purported personal data, including email addresses, phone numbers, OPay details, and Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), were also shared online as evidence of ownership.

Growing Calls for Accountability

With questions mounting over the credibility and transparency of the forensic process, analysts say INEC’s response to the FOI request could play a critical role in restoring public confidence.

The electoral body has yet to issue an official response to the foundation’s demands as of press time.