NEW INEC CHAIRMAN, PROF. JOASH OJO AMUPITAN, VOWS TO REBUILD ELECTORAL TRUST, UNITE COMMISSION — TASKS STAFF TO “BREAK DOWN SILOS” AND DELIVER CREDIBLE POLLS

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday entered a new phase of leadership as Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, formally assumed duty as its substantive Chairman in a ceremony marked by solemnity, symbolism, and renewed hope for Nigeria’s democracy.

Held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, the handover event was attended by INEC’s top management, directors, and dignitaries who witnessed what many described as “a defining moment in Nigeria’s electoral journey.”

Performing the official handover, Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, described the day as “a significant milestone in the life of the Commission and indeed, our nation’s democratic experience.”

She said Professor Amupitan’s assumption of duty came “at a most crucial time,” with the Commission deep in preparations for the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025.

> “Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and the expectations of Nigerians have never been higher,” Agbamuche-Mbu said.
“You are stepping onto firm and fertile ground laid by your predecessors, and you have some of the finest and most patriotic public servants in Nigeria behind you.”

The event also featured the formal introduction of INEC’s 23 departmental directors, described as “generals on the field of electioneering,” who oversee the Commission’s critical operations from voter registration to logistics and legal affairs.

Adding colour to the ceremony was the presence of a high-powered delegation from the University of Jos, Professor Amupitan’s alma mater. The delegation, led by the Vice-Chancellor, included the Registrar, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Bursar, and University Librarian — symbolizing the institution’s pride in the new INEC helmsman.

Also in attendance were Professor Amupitan’s wife, Professor Yemisi Amupitan, and their children, who joined in what was widely viewed as a moment of national responsibility and family pride.

In his inaugural address, Professor Amupitan expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the task of leading one of the country’s most critical institutions.

He pledged to anchor his tenure on integrity, transparency, discipline, and teamwork, while assuring Nigerians that INEC under his leadership would deliver elections that reflect the true will of the people.

> “The eyes of the nation are upon us, and we must rise to the occasion,” he declared.
“The forthcoming Anambra election will be a defining test of our collective commitment to free, fair, and credible polls. We must demonstrate that every vote truly counts.”

Setting the tone for his administration, Professor Amupitan outlined what he called a “dual charge” — to rebuild public confidence in the electoral process and unify INEC’s internal structure for greater synergy and effectiveness.

> “Let us break down silos. Let us foster open communication and create an environment where every voice is heard and valued,” he urged.
“Only through unity, integrity, and collaboration can we truly serve Nigeria.”

He also assured staff that their welfare and motivation would remain top priorities, noting that a motivated workforce is essential to achieving credible elections.

> “We are going to expect so much from you. Therefore, it’s only fair that we meet your expectations too,” he said, promising fairness, transparency, and justice in the management of the Commission’s human resources.

Professor Amupitan concluded with a resounding call for collective responsibility and renewed faith in the nation’s democracy.

> “Together, we shall uphold the values of democracy and restore legitimacy to our elections. This is our shared mandate, and together, we will succeed.”

As preparations intensify for the Anambra poll, all eyes now turn to the new INEC Chairman — a man whose first major test may well define the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic future.