Senate Confirms Professor Joash Amupitan as New INEC Chairman

Senate Confirms Professor Joash Amupitan as New INEC Chairman, Law Scholar to Lead Nigeria’s Electoral Reforms

 In a significant political development, the Nigerian Senate has officially confirmed Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The confirmation took place after a comprehensive screening session at the National Assembly in Abuja, marking the beginning of a new era for Nigeria’s electoral management body.
This confirmation comes at a crucial time when Nigerians are yearning for transparent, credible, and technologically driven elections. The Senate’s approval followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination of the distinguished law professor to succeed Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure recently ended. The atmosphere at the Red Chamber was both formal and cordial as lawmakers convened to deliberate on Amupitan’s nomination. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, presided over the plenary session, which witnessed a mix of lawmakers, political dignitaries, and invited guests.
Professor Amupitan arrived at the National Assembly complex earlier in the day, exchanging pleasantries with several senators before proceeding to the main chamber. He was accompanied by the Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Ododo, and other dignitaries, signifying the broad political support he enjoys. At exactly 12:50 p.m., the nominee was ushered into the Senate chamber by Senator Abubakar Lado, the Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters (Senate). He took his seat ahead of the screening exercise as anticipation filled the air.

To accommodate the visitors and guests, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), moved a motion to suspend Order 12, which restricts entry into the hallowed chamber. The motion was seconded by the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), and it was approved without objection. Senate President Godswill Akpabio formally welcomed the nominee, his family members, and his well-wishers to the Red Chamber. In his remarks, Akpabio noted that all necessary security clearances had been completed. According to him, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Office of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) had all cleared Professor Amupitan, confirming that he had no criminal records and was fit to serve. Following Akpabio’s remarks, the screening session commenced at 12:55 p.m. The session allowed senators to interact directly with the nominee, questioning him about his vision for Nigeria’s electoral future.

Amupitan’s Vision for INEC and Electoral Reform
During his presentation, Professor Amupitan outlined his vision for a credible, independent, and technology-driven electoral system. He emphasized the need to restore public confidence in the electoral process and to continue the institutional reforms initiated under his predecessor.
He stated that his primary focus would be:

• Enhancing the use of technology to ensure transparency in voter registration, accreditation, and results transmission.
• Strengthening INEC’s internal systems to prevent manipulation or compromise of election outcomes.
• Building capacity within INEC staff through regular training and ethical reorientation.
• Collaborating with civil society and security agencies to promote peaceful and fair elections.

According to Amupitan, “INEC must not only be independent but must be seen to be independent. Nigerians must have faith in the system, and that begins with integrity, transparency, and fairness at every stage of the process.”

A Background of Academic Excellence and Integrity
Professor Joash Amupitan is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, where he previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Law. His career in legal education spans over three decades, during which he mentored hundreds of lawyers, judges, and policymakers. Widely respected for his scholarship in constitutional law, international law, and public governance, Amupitan has also served as a consultant to several government agencies and international organizations. His appointment to lead INEC is seen by many as a recognition of his academic integrity, professionalism, and patriotism. In addition to his academic achievements, Amupitan has published extensively on topics related to democracy, rule of law, and constitutional governance. Colleagues describe him as a “stickler for fairness” and a “firm believer in democratic accountability.”

The confirmation followed President Bola Tinubu’s formal letter to the Senate, which was read by Akpabio during plenary earlier in the week. The nomination of a legal scholar of Amupitan’s caliber aligns with Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections.
Observers note that Amupitan’s appointment could help reposition INEC for greater efficiency, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections. With several off-cycle governorship elections approaching in states like Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo, his immediate task will be to oversee electoral preparations and improve logistics planning. Political analysts also believe Tinubu’s choice reflects a deliberate attempt to bridge the gap between academia and governance, especially in areas of law, justice, and electoral administration.

Following the confirmation, several senators commended the nominee’s credentials and expressed confidence in his ability to lead INEC effectively.
Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) remarked that the new INEC chairman must “uphold the integrity of the ballot and ensure that every Nigerian vote counts.” Similarly, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele praised Amupitan’s academic distinction, saying, “Nigeria needs a man of knowledge and integrity to restore public confidence in our elections.”
On social media, reactions were mixed. While many Nigerians welcomed his appointment as a positive step towards credible elections, others urged him to prioritize reforms that would ensure real-time electronic transmission of results and curb electoral violence.

Challenges Ahead for the New INEC Chairman
As he assumes office, Professor Amupitan faces several pressing challenges:
1. Public Distrust: Rebuilding confidence among citizens who have lost faith in the electoral system.
2. Technological Gaps: Expanding digital infrastructure to ensure seamless electronic transmission of election results.
3. Logistics and Security: Addressing issues of ballot material distribution and ensuring election security across volatile regions.
4. Legal Disputes: Managing post-election litigations effectively to prevent delays and mistrust.
5. Voter Education: Deepening civic education to combat apathy and misinformation.
Analysts note that how Amupitan handles these challenges will determine the credibility of the 2027 general elections and the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
See Also...Why I Decided to Bow Out of INEC—Prof. Mahmood Yakubu
In his closing remarks before the Senate vote, Amupitan expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by the President and lawmakers. He promised to “serve Nigeria with diligence, fairness, and integrity,” assuring the Senate that he would build on existing reforms and introduce innovative measures for electoral transparency.
Following his confirmation by a voice vote, Senate President Akpabio declared:

“With the confirmation of Professor Joash Amupitan, Nigeria takes another step forward in its democratic journey. We wish him success as he leads one of our most critical institutions.”

The confirmation of Professor Joash Amupitan as INEC Chairman marks an important turning point in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. His appointment brings renewed hope for free, fair, and credible elections, a system that reflects the will of the people. As preparations begin for upcoming elections, Nigerians will watch closely to see how the new leadership translates its promises into action. If successfully implemented, Amupitan’s reforms could redefine the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process and restore trust in democratic governance.


By PrimeLineInfo