New electoral chief, Professor Amupitan, tasks staff on unity and restoring voter confidence

​Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally inaugurated its new substantive Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, today, marking a significant transition in the nation’s electoral administration.

Professor Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, takes the helm at a critical juncture, immediately assuming oversight of the commission’s final preparations for the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025.

In his inaugural address at the INEC headquarters, the new Chairman, appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, issued a dual charge to the commission’s management and staff:

“Let us break down silos,” fostering open communication and synergy, and dedicating all efforts to restoring national electoral confidence.

“The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion,” Professor Amupitan stated, emphasizing the upcoming Anambra election as a “pivotal opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to free, fair, and credible elections” and address persistent voter apathy.

The handover ceremony saw the outgoing Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, present the formal notes, noting the “enormous” task ahead. She assured the new Chairman that he was stepping onto “firm and fertile ground” and praised the INEC staff as “some of the finest… and most patriotic public servants in Nigeria.”

Professor Amupitan, a distinguished Law Professor and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor from the University of Jos, pledged to uphold “the highest standard of integrity, transparency, and discipline.”

He also made a significant commitment to improving staff welfare, stating, “It’s a priority because we are going to expect so much from you. So, we need also to be so honest to meet your expectations.”

His tenure is set to be closely watched by the international community and domestic stakeholders as Nigeria’s democracy continues to mature, with a strong focus on the institutional reforms and technological advancements implemented by INEC to ensure credible polls.