INEC Withholds Identity of Forensic Expert Probing Pro-APC Social Media Account Linked to Chairman Amupitan

INEC transfers the forensic probe of a pro-APC X account to the Nigeria Police cybercrime unit, withholding the expert's identity to protect the investigation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 10:36 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Sun Nigeria

The Transfer of Forensic Oversight to Federal Authorities

The Independent National Electoral Commission has officially handed over the investigation of a controversial social media account to the cybercrime unit of the Nigeria Police Force. This development follows allegations that an X account promoting the All Progressives Congress was linked to the Commission's Chairman, Joash Amupitan. During an appearance on Channels TV Morning Brief, ICT Director Lawrence Bayode explained that the police are now the primary body responsible for the forensic analysis and potential prosecution of any offenses discovered during the inquiry.

Protecting the Integrity of Cybersecurity Investigations

In justifying the decision to keep the identity of the forensic cybersecurity expert confidential, Bayode emphasized the need to shield the investigative process from external interference. He noted that once a matter of this nature enters the jurisdiction of the police, protecting the identities of technical analysts becomes a procedural necessity. This measure is intended to ensure that the findings remain objective and that the individuals involved can conduct their technical evaluations without public or political pressure.

Collaborative Efforts Between INEC and the Police

Bayode clarified that the Commission did not act in isolation when engaging technical expertise to review the digital evidence. He stressed that the police cybercrime centre is now leading the effort, utilizing its specialized resources to determine the origin and management of the pro-APC account. By involving federal law enforcement, the Commission aims to provide a layer of independent verification that goes beyond internal administrative reviews, positioning the police as the final arbiter of the technical facts.