The newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Joash Amupitan, SAN, has pledged to entrench integrity, transparency, and discipline in the Commission’s operations.
Speaking at the INEC Headquarters in Abuja shortly after taking over from the Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, Amupitan urged staff to work together to deliver credible elections across the country.
Recall that Amupitan’s appointment was approved by National Council of State and confirmed by the Senate to become the sixth substantive Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
The legal luminary described his appointment as “a divine call to national service,” stressing that the credibility of Nigeria’s elections must never be compromised.
“Our mandate is clear, to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. To achieve this, we must work together as a team, leveraging both individual expertise and collective experience. The integrity of our elections is the soul of democracy, and it is not negotiable,” he said.
Accompanied by top officials of the University of Jos, including the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, the new INEC boss expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “a herculean but noble assignment.”
While acknowledging the high expectations of Nigerians, Amupitan expressed confidence that with unity and dedication, the Commission would meet its constitutional obligations.
He assured staff of improved welfare under his leadership, describing them as “the engine room of the Commission.”
“We will be expecting much from you, but it is only fair that we also give much in return. Staff welfare will be a top priority. We will ensure conducive working conditions and provide the tools you need to excel,” he said.
Turning his attention to the forthcoming Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025, the new Chairman described it as a critical test of the Commission’s commitment to credible polls.
“The Anambra election is not just another exercise, it is an opportunity to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to free, fair, and credible elections. The eyes of the nation are on us, and we must rise to the occasion,” he declared.
Amupitan also emphasized teamwork, urging staff to close ranks, strengthen collaboration across departments, and rebuild public confidence in the electoral process.
“Let’s restore the confidence of every voter that their vote counts. We must end voter apathy and rebuild trust in our democracy,” he said.
Earlier, in her brief handover remarks, the Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, congratulated Prof. Amupitan and assured him of the full support and loyalty of INEC staff. She described the transition as “a moment of continuity and renewal,” expressing optimism that the new Chairman would build upon the solid institutional foundation laid by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
“You are not walking into an empty field. INEC has a team of dedicated and patriotic staff who will stand firmly with you as you lead the Commission into its next chapter.”
Agbamuche-Mbu also disclosed that preparations for the Anambra election were already at an advanced stage, with four National Commissioners currently in the state for readiness assessment to ensure logistics and personnel deployment were in order.
While presenting the official handover documents, she commended the commitment of INEC staff nationwide and expressed confidence that under Amupitan’s leadership, the Commission would “soar to greater heights and further strengthen the foundations of Nigeria’s democracy.”
The brief but symbolic ceremony was attended by Prof. Amupitan’s wife and children, National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, Directors, senior officials, members of the INEC Press Corps, and family members.
