The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has called for stronger collaboration with the National Assembly as he unveiled key priorities aimed at deepening electoral credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Professor Amupitan made the call during his maiden interactive session with the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Room 107 of the Senate New Wing, Abuja. The meeting marked his first formal engagement with the committee since assuming office.
Accompanied by the full complement of National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, and his technical aides, Amupitan underscored the importance INEC attaches to legislative engagement. Also present were members of the Senate Committee, led by its Chairman, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, alongside Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Tony Nwoye, Ireti Kingibe, Ede Dafinone, Emma Nwachukwu, Kelvin Chukwu, and Sunday Katum.
In his address, the INEC Chairman described the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic framework, noting that its legislative and oversight roles have a direct bearing on the credibility and stability of the electoral process.
He expressed appreciation to the Senate for the rigorous confirmation process that preceded his appointment, describing it as a reflection of institutional cooperation rooted in constitutional values.
Reflecting on his early days in office, Prof. Amupitan recalled that the Commission was immediately tasked with conducting the Anambra State Governorship Election on November 8, 2025. He reported that the election was successfully concluded in a single day—an achievement he described as a departure from past experiences.
He attributed the outcome to effective inter-agency collaboration and the support of the National Assembly and other stakeholders, adding that the exercise offered valuable lessons, particularly in logistics and operational efficiency.
The INEC Chairman emphasised that Nigeria’s electoral system is governed by a tripartite framework comprising the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and INEC Regulations and Guidelines.
While the Commission has constitutional authority to conduct elections and issue regulations, he stressed that these powers must remain aligned with existing laws enacted by the National Assembly. He commended lawmakers for allowing INEC to contribute to ongoing constitutional and electoral reform processes.
Outlining his vision, Prof. Amupitan said supporting the National Assembly in delivering meaningful electoral reforms remains a central focus of his leadership.
He highlighted the need to strengthen electoral infrastructure and responsibly deploy technology to improve transparency, inclusiveness, and public trust in elections.
He also acknowledged the challenges posed by public expectations, stressing the importance of strict adherence to due process, constitutionalism, and institutional boundaries.
Voter education, he said, would receive renewed emphasis under his tenure, noting that informed citizen participation is critical to the integrity of the electoral process.
He further identified logistics as a decisive factor in election success, pointing out that preparations for upcoming polls—including the 2026 FCT Area Council elections and other off-cycle elections—are closely tied to the timely passage of electoral reforms by the National Assembly.
Earlier, Senator Simon Bako Lalong welcomed the INEC Chairman and his delegation, describing the interactive session as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
He reaffirmed INEC’s central role in building public confidence in governance, stressing that credible elections remain the foundation of democratic legitimacy.
Senator Lalong congratulated Prof. Amupitan on his appointment, noting that he assumed office at a time of heightened public expectations and evolving challenges, including technological innovation, electoral security, logistics, voter education, and public trust.
He assured INEC of the Committee’s commitment to providing legislative backing, constructive oversight, and policy guidance to support the Commission’s constitutional mandate.
He emphasised that the engagement was intended to promote open dialogue and institutional synergy rather than ceremonial interaction.
While reaffirming the Committee’s dedication to electoral reforms through legislation and budgetary support, Senator Lalong stressed that oversight does not amount to interference, reiterating that respect for INEC’s constitutional independence remains paramount.
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