The Senate on Thursday confirmed the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), marking the beginning of a new leadership era at Nigeria’s electoral body.
Amupitan’s confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and subsequent clearance by the National Council of State earlier this month.
His appointment was formally presented to the Senate in a letter read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
During Thursday’s session, the Senate suspended its rules to allow Professor Amupitan into the chamber, where he was screened by the Committee of the Whole.
Addressing lawmakers, the senior lawyer described himself as “a product of faith, mentorship, and effort,” pledging to serve the nation with integrity and impartiality.
Following the screening, the Senate unanimously confirmed the appointment, effectively paving the way for Amupitan to succeed Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure ended in October after serving two terms.
Profile of the New INEC Chairman
Born on April 25, 1967, in Aiyetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Amupitan is a seasoned legal scholar and administrator.
He obtained his LL.B, LL.M, and PhD from the University of Jos (UNIJOS), where he also served in various academic and administrative capacities, including as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration).
He was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2014 and has authored several books and academic papers in areas such as Company Law, Corporate Governance, and Evidence Law.
Amupitan has also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University and held memberships on multiple university and corporate boards.
Political Backing and Public Response
Amupitan’s nomination was widely supported across party lines and among civil society groups. The National Council of State gave its unanimous approval, while several student and youth organizations urged the Senate to expedite his confirmation, describing him as a competent and neutral legal expert.
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Despite questions raised over his past professional involvement in legal matters relating to political parties, the presidency maintained that Amupitan had never been a card-carrying member of any party nor held political office.
Expectations and Challenges Ahead
As INEC Chairman, Amupitan will be tasked with overseeing Nigeria’s electoral processes, including preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Key areas of focus will include enhancing the credibility of electoral outcomes, leveraging technology to improve transparency, and strengthening public confidence in the commission’s independence.
His appointment comes at a crucial time when stakeholders are calling for significant reforms within INEC, particularly following the criticisms and logistical challenges experienced in past elections.
The new chairman is expected to assume office in the coming days, as the commission prepares for a new electoral cycle.
