NEW INEC CHAIRMAN, PROF. AMUPITAN, URGES STAFF UNITY AND INTEGRITY AHEAD OF ANAMBRA POLL
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially welcomed its newly appointed Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, who assumed office during a handover ceremony at the Commission’s headquarters on Tuesday. The event marked the beginning of a new leadership era aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electoral integrity and deepening democratic values.
In her farewell remarks, the Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, described the transition as a “significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey.” She noted that Professor Amupitan’s appointment comes at a critical period as INEC prepares for the Anambra State Governorship Election slated for November 8, 2025. “You are assuming office at a most crucial time,” she said, emphasizing that public expectations for credible elections have never been higher.
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu praised the dedication of INEC staff, describing them as “some of the finest, most patriotic public servants in Nigeria,” and assured the new Chairman that he was inheriting a strong institutional foundation built by his predecessors. The event also featured the introduction of the Commission’s 23 directors, referred to as “generals on the field of electioneering”, who oversee INEC’s operations nationwide.
The ceremony was attended by a high-powered delegation from the University of Jos, the alma mater of the new Chairman, including the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and other top officials. Professor Amupitan’s wife, Professor Yemisi Amupitan, and their children were also present in support.
In his inaugural address, Professor Amupitan expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and discipline, assuring Nigerians that the forthcoming Anambra election would be “a pivotal opportunity to demonstrate INEC’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.”
Calling on INEC staff to work in unity, the Chairman emphasized the need to “break down silos” and foster open communication across departments. He also placed staff welfare at the forefront of his agenda, stating, “We are going to expect much from you, and it is only fair that we meet your expectations.” Professor Amupitan concluded with a charge for collective commitment: “Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly to strengthen the legitimacy of our elections.”
