Kenneth Okonkwo Accuses INEC Of Acting As APC’s ‘Department’ In Nigerian Politics.
Prominent Nigerian lawyer and former Nollywood actor Kenneth Okonkwo has sparked controversy with a scathing critique of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging it operates as a “department” of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Monday, 9 June 2025, Okonkwo accused INEC of undermining opposition efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections by creating “unnecessary roadblocks” and engaging in “rough tackles” against political rivals.
Okonkwo, a former spokesperson for the Labour Party’s Obi/Datti Presidential Campaign, claimed that INEC’s actions are stifling the formation of a viable opposition coalition. “If we were in a country where the rule of law is guaranteed, it would have been preferable to have a new party altogether,” he said, noting that INEC’s alleged delays and biases make registering a new political party challenging. “You can’t put all your eggs in one basket when INEC has tendencies of delaying what is apparent,” he added.
The outspoken lawyer further alleged that INEC’s conduct during the 2023 general elections was marred by irregularities, including the failure to upload polling unit results to its portal as required by law. He claimed that results for Labour Party candidate Peter Obi were “written” and “allocated” by INEC, particularly in states like Lagos and Rivers, where he believes Obi secured significant votes that were later reduced.
Okonkwo’s remarks come amid growing concerns about INEC’s impartiality, with opposition parties and activists calling for electoral reforms. He urged opposition groups to push for amendments to the Electoral Act and demand the appointment of “non-partisan men of integrity” to INEC’s leadership to ensure fair elections in 2027. Social media reactions on X echoed Okonkwo’s sentiments, with users expressing frustration over perceived biases in the electoral process.
INEC has yet to respond officially to Okonkwo’s allegations, though its chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, recently emphasized the need for swift electoral law reforms during a retreat with the National Assembly in April 2025. The APC, meanwhile, has dismissed claims of undue influence over INEC, with party leaders attributing electoral disputes to political rivalries rather than institutional bias.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, Okonkwo’s accusations have intensified scrutiny on INEC’s role, raising questions about the credibility of the nation’s electoral system. With calls for reform growing louder, the coming months will be critical in determining whether Nigeria can restore public confidence in its democratic processes.
