Professor Joash Amupitan has officially assumed office as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), promising to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, which he described as “non-negotiable.”
Amupitan, who was sworn in by President Bola Tinubu on Thursday at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, met with directors and staff at INEC headquarters later in the day. In his inaugural address, he pledged to deliver elections that reflect the true will of Nigerians.
“It is with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as your new Chairman. Our mandate is clear – to deliver free, fair and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people,” Amupitan said.
He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration among INEC staff, noting that internal efficiency and teamwork are critical to ensuring electoral credibility. “Credibility in our elections is paramount, and we must ensure that every voter feels confident that their vote will count. The integrity of our elections is not something we should negotiate,” he added.
Amupitan, accompanied by his family and top officials from the University of Jos, where he previously served, said staff welfare would be a priority under his leadership. “We are going to expect so much from you, but we must also give so much to those we expect much from. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure that working conditions are conducive and that our staff are equipped with the necessary resources to excel,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of the upcoming Anambra State Governorship Election, he described it as an opportunity to demonstrate INEC’s commitment to credible electoral processes. “The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion,” he said.
Describing his appointment as a divine calling, Amupitan said he was ready to play his role in fostering democracy and transparency in Nigeria. “I am excited about the journey ahead. Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly for the credibility of our elections. The path may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve,” he stated.
Earlier, the Acting INEC Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who formally handed over at the Commission’s Conference Hall, lauded Amupitan’s appointment as a recognition of his distinguished record as a legal scholar, administrator, and patriot. She assured him of the support of INEC’s experienced staff as he led the Commission into its next chapter.
Amupitan becomes the sixth substantive INEC chairman since Nigeria returned to democracy in 1999. His swearing-in occurred during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima and attended by state governors and key cabinet members.
Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to defend the Constitution and the electoral laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He also pledged to engage stakeholders across the political spectrum to ensure elections are conducted fairly and transparently.
“With the cooperation of stakeholders, we will set the bar high and ensure that elections in Nigeria are credible, free, and fair,” he said, signaling a new chapter in Nigeria’s electoral management.
Leave a Comment