President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to uphold transparency, integrity, and non-violence in Nigeria’s electoral process as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday, after administering the oath of office, President Tinubu described Amupitan’s appointment—recently confirmed by the Senate—as a demonstration of confidence in his competence, character, and integrity by both the executive and legislative arms of government.
“I urge you, Professor Amupitan, as you take on this assignment, to protect the integrity of our elections and the institutional capacity of INEC,” Tinubu said.
“Your first major test comes in November 2025, with the Anambra State Governorship Election. I wish you success in delivering a credible and peaceful poll.”
The President emphasised that credible elections remain the foundation of public trust and democratic stability, noting that Nigeria’s democracy—sustained since 1999—has matured through reforms, innovation, and the lessons of past challenges.
“Our democracy has come a long way,” he said. “To ensure that it continues to flourish, the integrity of our electoral system must be beyond reproach.”
Tinubu reaffirmed that although no electoral system is perfect, credibility and transparency at every stage—from voter registration to results collation—are critical for sustaining public confidence.
Amupitan Pledges Credible Elections, Collaboration with Stakeholders
In his first official remarks, Professor Amupitan pledged to uphold the Constitution and deliver free, fair, and credible elections. He emphasised that effective collaboration with political parties, civil society organisations, and security agencies would be central to his leadership approach.
“No matter how well you design the system, success requires the cooperation of all stakeholders,” he said.
“Like the President rightly charged, I am committed to ensuring credible, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria.”
Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Professor of Law at the University of Jos, was confirmed by the Senate on October 16, 2025, following endorsement by the National Council of State. He succeeds Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman since 2015—making him the commission’s longest-serving head.
The new chairman officially took the oath of office at 1:50 pm inside the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, in the presence of his family, senior government officials, and members of the academic community.
First INEC Chairman from Kogi, North-Central Nigeria
Amupitan’s appointment is historic, as he becomes the first INEC chairman from Kogi State (North-Central). His emergence continues the regional rotation pattern among Nigeria’s election umpires since 1993, a lineup that includes Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (Anambra), Prof. Maurice Iwu (Imo), Justice Ephraim Akpata (Edo), Prof. Attahiru Jega (Kano), and Prof. Mahmood Yakubu (Bauchi).
Upon assuming office, Amupitan declared his appointment as “divine,” expressing readiness to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“Our mandate is clear—to deliver elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people,” he said during his inaugural meeting with INEC directors.
“We must ensure that every vote counts, that every voter feels confident their choice matters.”
Focus on Staff Welfare and Institutional Integrity
The new INEC Chairman assured staff that their welfare and working conditions would be central to his reform agenda. He stressed that credible elections depend on the motivation and professionalism of INEC personnel.
“We are going to expect a lot from you, and in return, your welfare will be a top priority,” he stated. “We will ensure that your working environment and resources are adequate to deliver excellence.”
INEC Leadership Transition and Institutional Legacy
At the ceremony, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, Acting INEC Chairman, officially handed over to Amupitan, commending his record as a legal scholar and public administrator.
She praised the contributions of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, under whose leadership INEC introduced landmark innovations such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV)—tools that enhanced transparency and credibility in recent elections.
“Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and expectations have never been higher,” Agbamuche-Mbu said. “You are taking over a strong institution built on years of reform. May your tenure be marked by wisdom, integrity, and innovation.”
A Defining Moment Ahead
The forthcoming Anambra governorship election, scheduled for November 2025, will be Amupitan’s first major test. Both the presidency and INEC leadership view it as a litmus test for Nigeria’s electoral credibility heading into the 2027 general elections.
In his concluding remarks, Amupitan said:
“The eyes of the nation are upon us. Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and ensure every Nigerian’s vote truly counts. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
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