Professor Joash Amupitan, the newly confirmed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), arrived at the Presidential Villa in Abuja for his swearing-in by President Bola Tinubu. Dressed in a white agbada and gold cap, Amupitan exchanged pleasantries with dignitaries ahead of the 1:00 p.m. ceremony, marking the start of his tenure as Nigeria’s chief electoral officer.
The Senate confirmed his appointment on October 16 after a thorough screening, where the 58-year-old law professor outlined plans to reform Nigeria’s electoral system, enhance institutional independence, and restore public trust. He emphasized conducting elections where losers would congratulate winners, stating, “When that happens, voters’ confidence will naturally be restored.” Amupitan also pledged to strengthen the Electoral Act to clarify election timelines and improve transparency.
Nominated by Tinubu and approved by the National Council of State, Amupitan succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu, becoming the sixth substantive INEC Chairman.
He denied allegations of ties to Tinubu’s legal team during the 2023 Presidential Election Petitions Court, affirming his neutrality.
Following the swearing-in, Amupitan is expected to assume office immediately and begin the transition process at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja.
