President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, swore in the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), urging him to serve with integrity and be beyond reproach.
According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the swearing-in ceremony took place at the State House Council Chamber, Abuja, where Tinubu emphasised the importance of honesty, patriotism, and transparency in leading the electoral body.
Tinubu noted that Amupitan’s nomination and subsequent confirmation by the Senate reflected the confidence reposed in his capability by both the executive and legislative arms of government.
“Your nomination and the subsequent confirmation by the Senate are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you by both the executive and the legislative arms of government.”
This significant achievement marks the beginning of a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibility with the highest level of integrity, dedication and patriotism,” Tinubu stated.
The President recalled that Nigeria had made notable progress in consolidating democratic institutions since 1999, stressing that the integrity of the electoral process must remain unquestionable.
“Our democracy has come a long way in 25 years. We have consolidated and strengthened our democratic institutions, particularly in electoral systems, through innovations and reforms. We must now remain committed to the principles that underpin democracy in a complex and multifaceted society,” he added.
Tinubu also said the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, scheduled for November 8, 2025, would serve as a litmus test for the new INEC leadership, urging the commission to ensure free, fair, and credible polls.
“It is important that our elections are free, fair and credible. We must consistently improve our electoral process, addressing the challenges of yesterday and innovating for today and tomorrow,” he said.
The President charged Amupitan to strengthen INEC’s institutional capacity and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
The swearing-in followed the Senate’s confirmation of Amupitan’s appointment on October 16. He succeeds Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure as INEC Chairman ran from 2015 to 2025.
Amupitan, 58, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, had earlier pledged to reform the country’s electoral process, enhance institutional independence, and rebuild public trust during his Senate screening.
The new INEC Chairman is expected to assume office immediately.
