The Nigerian Senate has officially confirmed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The confirmation followed a rigorous screening session held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, where lawmakers thoroughly questioned the nominee on his plans for credible elections, institutional reforms, and advancing electoral technology in Nigeria.
Professor Amupitan, a respected law professor and legal counsel from Kogi State, was unanimously approved by the National Council of State prior to Senate confirmation. His appointment marks the succession after Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s two-term tenure of ten years. During the Senate session in Abuja, Amupitan responded comprehensively to multiple inquiries, highlighting his commitment toward preparing INEC for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections.Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed the appointment by voice vote after assurance that Amupitan had passed all security clearances with several agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, Department of State Services, and the Police.
The confirmation session was also notable for the restoration of all Senate floor privileges suspended earlier in the day.Amupitan arrived at the National Assembly accompanied by dignitaries including the Governor of Kogi State and family members. With this appointment, he assumes the leadership of Nigeria’s electoral body, tasked with strengthening electoral integrity and institutional credibility. This milestone appointment is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring transparent and credible elections as Nigeria approaches significant electoral cycles.
