In a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s democratic institutions, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today officially swore in Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during a ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Professor Amupitan, a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Professor of Law, assumes leadership of INEC following the conclusion of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure, which spanned from 2015 to October 2025. The Senate confirmed Amupitan’s appointment on October 16 after a rigorous screening process.
During the swearing-in, President Tinubu emphasized the critical role of INEC in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy. He charged the new chairman to “protect the integrity of Nigeria’s elections and strengthen the institutional capacity of the commission.” Tinubu further urged Amupitan to approach his responsibilities with “the highest level of integrity and patriotism.”
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Amupitan pledged to uphold the rule of law and ensure that the electoral process reflects the true will of the Nigerian people. He stated his commitment to “discharging his duties responsibly and transparently.”
Amupitan hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State and brings decades of legal expertise and public service to the role. His immediate engagements include strategic meetings with INEC directors at the commission’s headquarters to align on upcoming electoral priorities.