The newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has vowed to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, declaring it “non-negotiable.”
Speaking at the INEC headquarters in Abuja after being sworn in by President Bola Tinubu, Amupitan pledged to conduct elections that reflect the true will of Nigerians, starting with the upcoming Anambra State governorship election on November 8, 2025.
Dressed in a white agbada, Amupitan told INEC directors and staff, “Our mandate is clear—to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion.” He emphasized that credibility in elections requires cooperation among all stakeholders, including politicians and the general public.
Amupitan also promised to prioritize staff welfare, strengthen collaboration across departments, and restore voter confidence by ensuring that “every vote will count.” He described his appointment as a divine call, expressing optimism about his role in shaping a new Nigeria anchored on democracy and transparency.
His predecessor, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who handed over during the event, hailed Amupitan’s appointment as a recognition of his integrity and expertise. She urged him to build upon the reforms of former INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who introduced innovations like the BVAS and IReV systems.
Earlier at the State House, President Tinubu charged Amupitan to serve with “integrity and beyond reproach,” stressing that electoral integrity must remain the cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy. The President described the Anambra election as a “litmus test” for the new INEC leadership and called for transparency, non-violence, and credibility at every stage of the process.
What You Should Know
Prof. Joash Amupitan’s appointment as INEC Chairman marks the beginning of a new chapter for Nigeria’s electoral body.
A respected legal scholar and administrator, Amupitan faces the challenge of restoring public trust in elections amid widespread voter apathy and political skepticism.
His emphasis on staff welfare, transparency, and collaboration reflects his strategy to strengthen INEC’s internal capacity while ensuring that upcoming elections, particularly the Anambra governorship poll, serve as proof of his commitment to credible democracy and lasting electoral reform.
