The newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, on Thursday vowed that the integrity of Nigeria’s elections will not be compromised under his watch.
Amupitan, who formally assumed office at INEC headquarters in Abuja after being sworn in by President Bola Tinubu, described his appointment as a “divine call to service” and pledged to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
Speaking during an interactive session with INEC directors shortly after taking over from Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who had been acting as the Commission’s head since the exit of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the new chairman said he was determined to entrench transparency, discipline, and professionalism across all levels of the Commission.
“The integrity of our elections is not negotiable. Every voter must feel confident that their vote counts,” Amupitan declared. “Our mandate is clear — to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the true will of the people.”
The professor of law from the University of Jos, who was accompanied by his wife, children, and the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, said his leadership would focus on teamwork, accountability, and staff welfare.
“For me, staff welfare will be a priority. We will expect a lot from you, and in return, you deserve to be well-equipped and supported to perform. We will work hard to ensure conducive working conditions and adequate resources for all,” he assured.
Amupitan urged INEC staff to work in unity and demonstrate professionalism in the conduct of elections, especially ahead of the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, which he described as a test of the Commission’s renewed commitment to credibility.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us,” he said. “We must rise to the occasion and show Nigerians that INEC is capable of conducting elections that meet the highest democratic standards.”
While commending Agbamuche-Mbu for her leadership during the transition period, the new INEC chairman said the Commission must move beyond past challenges and rebuild public trust through openness and consistent communication.
“Together, we can uphold the values of democracy and prove that credible elections are achievable. The task is enormous, but with unity of purpose, nothing is beyond our reach,” he added.
Amupitan’s appointment has been widely seen as part of President Tinubu’s efforts to restore confidence in the electoral umpire following widespread criticism of the 2023 general elections.
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