On October 23, 2025, President Bola Tinubu ushered in a transformative era for Nigeria’s democracy by swearing in Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The ceremony, held at the State House, saw the 58-year-old law professor, dressed in a crisp white agbada and gold cap, take the oath amid high expectations. Confirmed by the Senate on October 16, Amupitan’s appointment signals a bold push for credible, transparent elections.
Tinubu charged him with a clear mission: “Strengthen INEC and protect the integrity of our electoral process to rebuild public trust.”
A Mandate for Trust and Reform
Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s democracy, now 25 years strong, demands an electoral system beyond reproach.
“Elections are the heartbeat of democracy, giving people the power to choose their future,” he said.
He urged Amupitan to ensure every step voter registration, campaigning, voting, and counting is fair, peaceful, and transparent. “We’ve made strides, but we must innovate to meet today’s challenges,” Tinubu added, emphasizing INEC’s role in sustaining public confidence.
Amupitan’s task is to fortify an electoral framework that unites Nigeria’s diverse society through trust and accountability.
Amupitan’s Bold Vision
Hailing from Kogi State, Amupitan brings a wealth of expertise as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and University of Jos professor. During his Senate screening, he pledged to overhaul the Electoral Act, streamline timelines, and boost transparency.
“I want elections where losers shake hands with winners,” he declared, aiming to restore faith in results. He firmly denied any ties to Tinubu’s 2023 election legal team, asserting his impartiality.
His vision is clear: deliver polls that inspire confidence and reflect the will of Nigerians.
A Stellar Career
Born April 25, 1967, Amupitan’s journey began at Kwara State Polytechnic (1982–1984) and the University of Jos (1984–1987), earning his LL.B.
Called to the bar in 1988 after NYSC in Bauchi, he later secured an LL.M. (1993) and Ph.D. (2007). His roles at UNIJOS include Dean of Law (2008–2014) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration). He’s also Pro-Chancellor at Joseph Ayo Babalola University.
Amupitan’s books, like Principles of Company Law (2013) and Documentary Evidence in Nigeria (2008), cement his legal prowess. He’s served on boards like Integrated Dairies Limited and the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.
Stepping into History
As INEC’s sixth chairman, succeeding Mahmood Yakubu, Amupitan assumes a pivotal role. His first day at INEC headquarters marked the start of a journey to reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape. With Tinubu’s backing, he’s poised to tackle past flaws, from inconsistent timelines to voter distrust, ensuring elections reflect the people’s voice.
His neutrality and expertise make him a beacon for a fairer democratic process.
Nigeria’s Democratic Future
Amupitan’s leadership comes at a critical time. Nigeria’s elections have faced scrutiny, but his reforms could change the narrative.
By prioritizing transparency and innovation, he aims to make INEC a pillar of trust. Nigeria’s youth, eager for change, are watching closely, as are global observers tracking Africa’s democratic pulse.
This isn’t just an appointment it’s a call to redefine Nigeria’s democratic destiny.
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