🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
INEC explains decision to withhold cybersecurity expert's identity in Amupitan social media probe
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has clarified its decision not to publicly name the forensic cybersecurity expert who investigated partisan social media posts allegedly linked to its Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan. According to Lawrence Bayode, INEC's Director of Information and Communication Technology, the decision is deliberate because the case has been formally handed over to the National Cybercrime Center NCCC under the Nigerian Police Force. This measure aims to prevent interference with the ongoing investigation. Bayode stated that INEC had already subjected its initial findings to "multiple layers of technical verification" before escalating the matter. The NCCC is responsible for prosecuting cybercrime-related cases and will conduct an independent review. INEC emphasized that its involvement does not end with the initial findings, as the case has been transferred for further scrutiny. This development follows online controversy sparked by screenshots claiming the INEC chairman operated an X account and made a partisan post. Additional screenshots circulated, purporting to show emails, phone numbers, BVN records, and data breach links connecting Professor Amupitan to the account. A statement signed by Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, indicated that a detailed forensic investigation had exonerated Professor Amupitan, concluding that the claims were "fabricated, technically impossible and part of a coordinated disinform
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams and a mix of global superstars, established icons, and rising talents. Veteran legends like Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, set for a record sixth World Cup at age 41, and Lionel Messi of Argentina, likely making his final World Cup appearance as the 2022 champion captain, are expected to participate. Global superstars include Kylian Mbappé of France, Erling Haaland of Norway, Vinícius Júnior of Brazil, and Mohamed Salah of Egypt. Rising stars and breakout candidates feature Lamine Yamal of Spain, Jamal Musiala of Germany, and Bukayo Saka of England. Key midfield anchors and leaders include Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice of England, Harry Kane of England, Federico Valverde of Uruguay, Julián Álvarez of Argentina, Rodri of Spain, and Ousmane Dembélé of France. Other notable stars include Son Heung-min of South Korea. The tournament, which begins on June 11, 2026, is anticipated to be a transition period, with icons like Messi and Ronaldo potentially making their final appearances as the next generation aims to claim the spotlight.
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