Akpabio Defends Amupitan: “He Was Not INEC Chairman Then” Amid Post Controversy

Akpabio made the remarks during his address at the inauguration of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters in Abuja, where he stated that the comment in question had been misinterpreted and taken out of context.

He explained that the alleged post was made before Amupitan assumed office as INEC chairman, stressing that individuals are entitled to express political opinions prior to taking up public service roles. According to him, the statement being circulated did not indicate support for any specific political party and was being wrongly framed in the ongoing public debate.

Akpabio further argued that the reaction to the post was exaggerated, noting that it made no direct reference to any political party and should not be construed as partisan endorsement. He maintained that the controversy stemmed from misinterpretation and urged the public to consider the timing and context of the alleged statement.