NIGERIA: Tinubu Swears In Amupitan as New INEC Chairman

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos , Nigeria 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The swearing-in ceremony took place on Thursday at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, ahead of the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting.

Addressing the newly inaugurated electoral chief, President Tinubu charged Amupitan to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process and strengthen the capacity of the Commission to deliver free, fair, and credible elections.

The President said: “Your role is critical to the survival of our democracy. I urge you to demonstrate courage, impartiality, and professionalism in the discharge of your duties.”

Amupitan’s appointment followed the unanimous endorsement of his nomination by the National Council of State, after which the Senate confirmed him through a voice vote presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

A Professor of Law at the University of Jos (UNIJOS), Amupitan hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. He was conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2014 and is widely known for his expertise in company law, law of evidence, corporate governance, and privatisation law.

With his assumption of office, the new INEC Chairman faces immediate responsibilities, including preparations for the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November and the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections set for February 2026.

Amupitan succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who completed his tenure earlier this year. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Commission as it continues efforts to improve transparency, technology adoption, and citizens’ confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.