President Tinubu Swears in New INEC Chairman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently swore in Prof Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the sixth substantive chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This significant event took place at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with several top government officials in attendance. During the brief ceremony, the president emphasized the importance of ensuring credible, transparent, and fair elections across Nigeria.
In his address following the oath of office, President Tinubu urged the new INEC chairman to serve with integrity and maintain public confidence in the nation’s electoral system. He highlighted that Amupitan’s nomination and confirmation by the Senate were a testament to his capabilities and the trust placed in him by both the executive and legislative branches of government.
Tinubu acknowledged the progress made in Nigeria’s democracy since 1999, noting the strengthened electoral institutions and reforms. However, he stressed that the integrity of elections must remain sacrosanct. He mentioned that the November 8 Anambra governorship election would serve as a litmus test for the new INEC leadership, urging Amupitan to demonstrate independence and fairness.
A Challenging Journey Ahead
The president expressed his belief that Amupitan would approach his responsibilities with the highest level of integrity, dedication, and patriotism. He reiterated the need for all aspects of the electoral process—registration, voting, and counting—to be transparent, non-violent, and credible. While no electoral system is flawless, Tinubu emphasized the importance of continuous improvement to safeguard democracy.
Amupitan’s swearing-in followed his confirmation by the Senate on October 16. He succeeds Prof Mahmood Yakubu, whose 10-year tenure as INEC chairman ended earlier this month. In his address to State House correspondents, Amupitan pledged to defend the Constitution and work with all stakeholders to deliver credible elections. He acknowledged the necessity of collective effort in achieving success, regardless of how high the standards may be set.
Commitment to Transparency and Teamwork
Later in the day, at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, Amupitan assured staff of his commitment to transparency, teamwork, and professionalism. He described the upcoming Anambra governorship election as a crucial test of his leadership, emphasizing the importance of delivering free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
Amupitan also promised to prioritize staff welfare, stating that their well-being would be a key priority. He mentioned the need to ensure a conducive environment and better conditions of service for all employees.
Outgoing acting chairman, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu, who handed over to Amupitan, described the transition as a moment of continuity and renewal. She congratulated him on his appointment, highlighting his distinguished record as a legal scholar, administrator, and patriot. She noted that preparations were in full swing for the Anambra poll, with four national commissioners already in the state for a readiness assessment.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Meanwhile, the appearance of the wife and children of the new INEC chairman at the commission’s headquarters on his first day of work has generated public discussion. While some viewed it as a personal and harmless gesture, others raised concerns about the sensitivity of his position and the potential security risks involved.
Observers pointed out that while it was not unusual for family members to accompany a public official on a significant day, the visibility of the INEC chairman’s family could expose them to unnecessary attention and possible danger. Amupitan’s family had also accompanied him during his Senate screening and confirmation, where Senate President Godswill Akpabio personally identified and recognized them before the plenary.
In contrast, former INEC chairmen such as Prof Mahmood Yakubu and Prof Attahiru Jega kept their families away from the public eye throughout their tenures. Yakubu, in particular, was known for his discretion, reportedly keeping his family within the confines of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) residence in Kaduna for the entire duration of his 10 years as INEC chairman.
Analysts suggest that Amupitan may need to strike a careful balance between openness and discretion as he settles into office, given the intense public scrutiny his position will attract ahead of the 2027 general elections.
