The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan on Thursday formally assumed office, describing his appointment as a divine mandate to service.
He expressed gratitude to God for a “divine assignment,” and vowed to uphold integrity, transparency, and discipline in the management of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Amupitan, who was sworn in earlier by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, took over from May Agbamuche-Mbu, who had been serving as Acting Chairman of the Commission since the exit of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
Speaking during an interactive meeting with INEC Directors at the commission’s Headquarters in Abuja, shortly after taking over, Amupitan, immediate-past Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos, Amupitan, who was accompanied by his wife, children,UNIJOS VC, Prof Tanko Ishaya and other top officials assured the commission’s staff that his leadership would prioritise their welfare and professional development.
“I am here for a purpose. Maybe if I had a choice, I would have said I would not come here. But from all indications, I can see that God is moving this country, and my coming is divine. With God saying go, who am I to say no? I am here because I have a role to play to ensure that a new Nigeria is birthed”, he said.
The new INEC Chairman said teamwork, accountability, and commitment to credible elections was important, adding that the success of the commission depends on synergy among its departments and staff.
He emphasized the need of restoring public confidence in the electoral process, adding that Nigerians must trust that their votes will count.
Amupitan said, “Our mandate is very clear. That is to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the people. The integrity of our elections is not negotiable. Every voter must feel confident that their vote counts.
“For me, staff welfare is going to be a priority. We will expect a lot from you, and because of that, you also deserve to be well equipped and supported to deliver. We will work assiduously to ensure that your working conditions are conducive and that you have the necessary resources to excel.”
Amupitan who also acknowledged the task ahead, particularly the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election, stated that the exercise would serve as a test of INEC’s resolve to uphold credibility and transparency.
He said, “Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly for the credibility of our elections. The facts may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us. We must rise to the occasion and demonstrate that we are capable of conducting elections that meet the expectations of Nigerians. I want to thank you for your commitment, your service, and I look forward to working closely with all of you as we embark on this very, very important mission.”
He commended Agbamuche-Mbu for her stewardship in the interim period and thanked INEC staff for their dedication to duty.
Amupitan urged the staff to work in unity, break silos, and commit to strengthening democratic values through credible elections.
Agbamuche-Mbu said, “Today marks a significant moment in the life of our Commission and indeed in our nation’s democratic journey. It is a day of continuity, renewal, and steadfast commitment to the ideals of credible elections and good governance.
“It is with immense joy and deep respect therefore that I formally welcome and congratulate our new Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN on his well-deserved appointment by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his swearing-in earlier today.
“Sir, your appointment is not only a recognition of your distinguished record as a legal scholar, administrator and patriot but also a call to national service of the highest order.
“You are assuming office at a most crucial time; a period when the Commission is at the final stage of preparations for the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday November 8 2025. As we speak, four of our National Commissioners are in Anambra State on a Readiness Assessment Visit which is a routine exercise undertaken before every major Election to ensure that all logistics, materials and personnel are fully in place.
“Their absence here today is in the line of duty and a reflection of the Commission’s commitment to continuous readiness. The task ahead, no doubt, is enormous. Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and the expectations of Nigerians have never been higher. However, you are not walking into an empty field. You are stepping onto the firm and fertile ground laid by your predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu under whose leadership the commission recorded landmark innovations; from the introduction of technology driven processes such as the BVAS and IReV to the strengthening of institutional transparency and voter confidence.
“The foundation has been laid; the path is defined. What lies ahead is the building, the consolidation and the forward march. Professor Amupitan, this assignment before you is without doubt a herculean national service. One that demands sacrifice, patience, and unflinching dedication but I have no doubt that you are equal to the task.
“The commission is blessed with some of the finest most experienced and most patriotic public servants in Nigeria. The staff of INEC have demonstrated time and again their resilience, professionalism and deep sense of duty in the service of our democracy.
“They will stand firmly with you as you lead the commission into its next chapter.
6. I can say with confidence that the staff of INEC are happy to welcome you, Sir. Together with you, they will continue to build an electoral process that meets the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians, and one that upholds the sanctity of the people’s will.
“In my hands are the handover notes and supporting documents that contain details of the commission’s ongoing programmes, administrative matters, and strategic priorities. These documents will, I trust, help you to settle in quickly and continue the work seamlessly.
“I want to thank my colleagues, the staff of the Commission and my country Nigeria for the privilege to have served as acting Chairman of this great Institution. I am confident that under your leadership, Professor Joash Amupitan SAN, the commission will soar to even greater heights beyond your wildest imagination and further strengthen the foundation of our democracy.
“On behalf of the National Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners, Directors, and all staff of the Commission, I once again congratulate you and wish you great success as you take on this noble and demanding responsibility. May your tenure be marked by wisdom, integrity, innovation, and enduring impact.”
Friday Olokor, Abuja
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