New INEC Chairman, Professor Amupitan
BY GODWIN OBI
President Bola Tinubu has tasked the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to ensure transparency, inclusivity, and non-violence in the conduct of the 2027 general elections, stressing that credible polls are the bedrock of democracy and public trust.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja shortly after administering the oath of office on Amupitan, Tinubu described his appointment—confirmed by the Senate a week earlier—as a testament to his competence, integrity, and the confidence reposed in him by both the executive and legislative arms of government.
“I urge you, Professor Amupitan, to safeguard the integrity of our elections and strengthen the institutional capacity of INEC. Your first major test will be the Anambra governorship election in November 2025, and I wish you success,” the President said.
He noted that Nigeria’s democracy, sustained since 1999, has evolved through reforms and lessons from past challenges. “To ensure our democracy continues to flourish, the integrity of our electoral system must remain beyond reproach,” Tinubu stated.
While acknowledging that no electoral system is perfect, the President said credibility and transparency must define every stage—from voter registration to campaigning, voting, and results collation.
“To maintain public trust, electoral integrity must be protected. Every aspect of the process should be transparent, non-violent, and credible. Elections are the people’s right to choose their leaders and shape their future. We must continue to improve the process, addressing yesterday’s challenges and innovating for tomorrow,” Tinubu added.
Shortly after the swearing-in, Amupitan told Frontline Reporters that he was committed to upholding the Constitution and ensuring credible, free, and fair elections.
“I reaffirm my commitment to defend the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic as they relate to the electoral process. Like the President said, I’ve been given a clear charge—to ensure credible, fair, and free elections—and that I will uphold,” he said.
The new INEC Chairman pledged to work closely with political parties, civil society organisations, and security agencies to build a more transparent system. “No matter how well a system is designed, success requires the cooperation of all stakeholders,” he remarked.
Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Professor of Law at the University of Jos, succeeded Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who led the commission from 2015 to 2025—the longest tenure by any INEC chairman. His appointment was confirmed by the Senate on October 16, 2025, following endorsement by the National Council of State.
He was sworn in at 1:50 p.m. inside the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, marking a new chapter for Nigeria’s electoral body.
Upon assuming duties at INEC headquarters, Amupitan declared his appointment a “divine call to serve,” vowing to restore public confidence in the nation’s elections. “Our mandate is clear—to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of Nigerians. To achieve this, teamwork and discipline are essential,” he told INEC directors.
He pledged to uphold transparency, accountability, and staff welfare, describing them as critical to institutional performance. “Staff welfare will be a top priority. We’ll ensure conducive working conditions and equip our personnel to deliver effectively,” he said.
Amupitan identified the upcoming Anambra State governorship election as a defining test for his leadership. “The eyes of the nation are upon us. This election will show our commitment to credible polls. Every voter must feel confident that their vote will count,” he said.
He also described his appointment as part of a divine plan. “Maybe if I had a choice, I wouldn’t be here, but I believe God is moving in this country. My coming is divine, and INEC has a crucial role in birthing a new Nigeria,” he affirmed.
Earlier, Acting INEC Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu, officially handed over to Amupitan, congratulating him on his appointment and urging him to build on the achievements of his predecessor, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
She said, “Your appointment is a recognition of your distinguished record as a legal scholar and patriot. You are assuming office at a crucial time as the commission prepares for the Anambra governorship election. Nigerians’ expectations have never been higher.”
Agbamuche-Mbu praised Yakubu’s tenure for introducing innovations such as the BVAS and IReV systems, which strengthened voter confidence and transparency.
Describing Amupitan’s assignment as a “herculean national service,” she expressed confidence in his capacity to deliver. “This task demands sacrifice, patience, and dedication, but I have no doubt you are equal to it. May your tenure be marked by wisdom, integrity, and lasting impact,” she said as she presented the handover notes.
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2025-10-21