The new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), has pledged his commitment to free, fair, and credible elections that truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
Prof. Amupitan made the pledge while meeting with staff members at the INEC headquarters in Abuja shortly after his swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday.
“It is with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as your new chairman,” he said. “Our mandate as INEC is clear to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of Nigerians.”
He emphasized the need for teamwork, professionalism, and discipline among INEC staff, adding that collective effort is key to achieving the Commission’s goals.
“To achieve this, we must work together as a team,” he said. “While individual performance is important, what matters most is how it contributes to our overall success as a team. We must leverage our unique skills and expertise to strengthen our processes.”
The INEC boss described the upcoming Anambra State governorship election as an opportunity to demonstrate the Commission’s commitment to electoral credibility and transparency.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to the occasion,” he stated. “We must ensure that every voter feels confident that their vote counts because that is the foundation of our democracy.”
Prof. Amupitan also stressed that staff welfare would be a top priority under his leadership, saying, “We will work tirelessly to ensure that our working conditions are conducive and that our staff are equipped with the necessary resources to excel.”
Expressing optimism about the future, he added, “The task ahead may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve. My coming here is divine, and I believe God is moving in this country. Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly for the credibility of our elections.”
Earlier, Acting INEC Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, congratulated Prof. Amupitan on his appointment, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his distinguished record as a legal scholar and patriot.
She said his assumption of office came at a crucial time when the Commission was finalizing preparations for the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025.
“As we speak, four of our national commissioners are in Anambra State on readiness assessment visits,” she said. “Their absence here today is in line with duty and reflects the Commission’s commitment to continuous preparedness.”
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu highlighted the foundation laid by former Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, through the introduction of innovations such as BVAS and IReV, which have deepened electoral transparency.
“The foundation has been laid, and the path is defined,” she said. “The task ahead is to build, consolidate, and advance. I have no doubt that Prof. Amupitan is equal to the task.”
She commended INEC staff for their patriotism and professionalism, assuring the new chairman of their full support as he leads the Commission into its next chapter.