…President Cites Integrity, Apolitical Nature, and Service Record as Key Factors
By our reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained his decision to appoint Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the expiration of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure.
In a statement released on Thursday, President Tinubu stated that Amupitan’s appointment was guided by his apolitical stance, unquestionable integrity, and an impeccable record of public service. He stressed that Nigeria’s electoral process demands a leader with proven character, neutrality, and a deep understanding of law and governance — qualities he believes Amupitan possesses in abundance.
Tinubu said, “Our democracy is only as strong as the institutions that uphold it. INEC must remain independent and impartial. Professor Amupitan has demonstrated, over decades, that he is not only competent but also above political interference.”
Professor Joash Amupitan is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and an accomplished academic with decades of experience in legal education and administration. He has served as Dean of the Faculty of Law and as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Jos. Widely known for his expertise in constitutional and electoral law, he has also contributed to national legal reforms and democratic development.
According to the presidency, Amupitan’s consistent neutrality and dedication to the rule of law make him well-suited to lead the electoral body at a time when public trust in the electoral process must be rebuilt and strengthened.
The appointment also marks a significant milestone as Professor Amupitan becomes the first person from Kogi State — and the North-Central geopolitical zone — to head the electoral commission. The presidency highlighted this as part of its broader commitment to inclusiveness and equitable representation in federal appointments.
Tinubu’s nomination has reportedly been endorsed by the National Council of State, a constitutionally recognized advisory body comprising past presidents, former chief justices, and serving governors. The council commended the choice, describing it as a strategic step toward improving electoral integrity in Nigeria.
Professor Amupitan assumes the leadership of INEC at a critical time as the country prepares for a new round of off-cycle elections and faces ongoing calls for comprehensive electoral reform. Although the 2023 general elections were mostly peaceful, they were marred by logistical challenges, delayed result transmissions, and credibility concerns raised by observers.
With this appointment, the new INEC chairman will be expected to implement key reforms, enhance transparency, and maintain independence amid mounting political pressure.
Public and political reactions to the announcement are still unfolding. Civil society organisations, electoral watchdogs, and pro-democracy advocates have called for an open and merit-based confirmation process in the National Assembly. Many are watching closely to see if the new leadership will rise to the task of delivering credible, free, and fair elections in Nigeria.
If confirmed, Professor Amupitan will begin a five-year tenure that places him at the centre of Nigeria’s democratic future.
