Abuja, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially entered a new chapter of leadership with the assumption of office by its newly appointed substantive Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, during a formal handover ceremony held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The event, which drew senior officials and dignitaries, marked a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s democracy.
In her address, the Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who presented the handover notes to the new Chairman, described the occasion as “a significant moment in the life of our Commission and indeed our nation’s democratic journey.”
She noted that Prof. Amupitan’s appointment comes at a critical time, just weeks before the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025, stressing that the Commission is already in its final phase of preparation.
“You are assuming office at a most crucial time,” she remarked, explaining that four National Commissioners were already on the ground in Anambra for a readiness assessment exercise. “Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and the expectations of Nigerians have never been higher,” she added.
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu assured the new Chairman of a capable and experienced workforce, describing INEC staff as “some of the finest, most patriotic public servants in Nigeria.”
The ceremony also featured the formal introduction of the Commission’s directors, described as the “generals on the field of electioneering,” representing INEC’s 23 departments.
Adding an academic touch to the event, a high-powered delegation from the University of Jos, Prof. Amupitan’s alma mater, attended the ceremony. The team included the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Bursar, and Librarian. The new Chairman was also accompanied by his wife, Professor Yemisi Amupitan, and their children.
In his inaugural address, Professor Amupitan expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment, acknowledging the enormous responsibility attached to his new role. He reaffirmed his commitment to integrity, transparency, and discipline, stating that the Commission must seize the Anambra election as “a pivotal opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.”
“The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion,” he said, emphasizing the need to rebuild public trust and combat voter apathy.
He called on INEC staff to work collaboratively across all departments, urging them to “break down silos, foster open communication, and create an environment where every voice is heard and valued.”
Professor Amupitan also pledged to prioritize staff welfare, recognizing it as a vital component of institutional efficiency. “We are going to expect so much from you, and we must, in turn, meet your expectations,” he stated, promising fairness and justice in administration.
He concluded with an optimistic message: “Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly to strengthen the legitimacy of our elections.”
With his call for unity and renewed purpose, Professor Amupitan’s assumption of office sets a promising tone for the next phase of Nigeria’s electoral journey.
