The appointment of Prof. Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has sparked a flurry of activity among opposition parties, who view this as a critical moment for electoral reform in Nigeria. Amupitan steps into a role fraught with challenges, as the electoral system he inherits is marred by controversy, low voter confidence, and significant pressure to deliver credible elections.
His appointment follows the unanimous endorsement of the Kogi-born academic by the National Council of State during a meeting at the State House in Abuja. Amupitan succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose decade-long tenure ended just days prior.
President Bola Tinubu highlighted Amupitan’s apolitical stance and integrity as key reasons for his selection, stating that he is the first person from Kogi State to be nominated for this position. The council members, including prominent leaders, echoed this sentiment, praising Amupitan as a man of proven integrity. Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo emphasized his deep commitment to justice and national service.
With the council’s approval, the President will now forward Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation, in accordance with constitutional provisions.
At 58 years old, Amupitan hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. He is a professor of law at the University of Jos, currently serving as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) and also holds the position of Pro-Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University.
In light of his appointment, various political parties have urged Amupitan to prioritize transparency, neutrality, and significant institutional reform to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) cautioned the new electoral chief to remain loyal to the Nigerian populace rather than political interests. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called for internal cleansing and comprehensive electoral reforms to rebuild trust in the commission.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) expressed confidence in Amupitan’s appointment, asserting that it was based on merit. They expect him to demonstrate fairness and integrity while continuing the electoral reforms already underway.
ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi emphasized, “We expect the new INEC chairman to have a personal ambition to do better and restore the confidence of Nigerians.” He noted that Amupitan has the opportunity to build a legacy that his children would be proud of.
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, urged the new chairman to implement reforms that would reinforce Nigeria’s democracy. He reminded Amupitan that his appointment should not be for personal gain but as a service to the nation.
In a show of cautious optimism, opposition leaders such as Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi have called for electoral reform to be Amupitan’s first priority. Obi’s aides highlighted the importance of adherence to the rule of law, stressing that the new INEC boss should not be swayed by political pressures.
As Amupitan prepares to take on this pivotal role, the expectations are high, with both opposition and ruling party figures calling for a renewed commitment to transparency and integrity in Nigeria’s electoral processes.
