…New Chief pledges credible, transparent elections
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday swore-in Professor Joash Amupitan, (SAN), as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with a charge to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process and strengthen the institution’s capacity ahead of future elections.
The ceremony, held at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa in Abuja at about 1:50 p.m., followed the Senate’s confirmation of Amupitan’s appointment on October 16, after a rigorous screening session.
Speaking shortly after taking his oath of office, Prof. Amupitan described his appointment as a “divine call to serve”, pledging to restore public confidence in the nation’s electoral system and ensure that elections under his leadership would be “free, fair, and credible”.
“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”, Amupitan declared during his first official meeting with INEC directors and senior staff.
He assured Nigerians that his administration at the Commission would uphold transparency, discipline, and accountability as guiding principles, emphasizing that credible elections remain fundamental to sustaining democracy.
“As we mark the beginning of this new chapter, I want to assure you of my commitment to upholding the highest standard of integrity, transparency, and discipline in all our operations”, he stated.
Turning his attention to the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election, the new INEC boss described it as a defining test for the Commission’s credibility.
Amupitan also promised to prioritize staff welfare and capacity-building within INEC, noting that the Commission’s workforce is central to delivering transparent elections.
“For me, staff welfare will be a priority. We will expect much from our staff, but in return, we’ll ensure they are well motivated, properly equipped, and work under conducive conditions”, he assured.
Accompanied by his wife, children, and colleagues from the University of Jos, where he previously served, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria expressed gratitude to his academic community for their support and encouragement.
Reflecting on the enormity of his new role, Amupitan said he viewed the appointment as part of a divine plan.
“Maybe if I had a choice, I would say I would not come here. But from all indications, I can see that God is moving in this country, and my coming is divine. I’m here because I have a role to play in ensuring that a new Nigeria is born — and INEC has a vital role in that mission”, he concluded.
President Tinubu, in his brief remarks, urged the new INEC chairman to uphold the Commission’s independence and safeguard the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system, assuring him of the administration’s support in strengthening democratic institutions.
