Retired Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ayo Olowonihi, has expressed strong confidence that the newly nominated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo-Amupitan, will ensure Nigerians truly elect their leaders through credible and transparent elections.
Speaking in an interview on ARISE News on Thursday, Olowonihi said the nominee possesses the courage, integrity, and dedication needed to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Amupitan is the INEC chairman who will let Nigerians elect their leaders,” Olowonihi said. “He’s not going to be the kind of chairman who tells people to ‘go to court.’ He’s a hard worker, a man of character and integrity, and the tougher the job gets, the harder he’ll work.”
Olowonihi, who has known Amupitan for decades, described him as “a friend in need” and a man of impeccable values shaped by humble beginnings.
“We grew up together; our fathers were teachers in Kogi State. I can tell you he’s a man of principle and dedication,” Olowonihi said. “When I had a setback in my career, Amupitan took up my case, handled it up to the Court of Appeal, and didn’t ask for a penny. That’s the kind of person he is.”
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Amupitan, describing the choice as “a step in the right direction” toward restoring faith in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“We thank the President for appointing him. I believe his legacy will be allowing Nigerians to truly elect their leaders. We’ll support him with prayers because he represents great hope for our democracy,” he said.
Olowonihi added that Amupitan’s long career in academia and law has prepared him to lead INEC with fairness and resolve.
“He’s spent his life in the University of Jos, where he’s been a lecturer, dean, and deputy vice-chancellor. He may be entering a new terrain, but he’s a fast learner and never shies away from tough decisions. He’ll confront any cabal or internal resistance if it exists,” he said.
Bello advised the incoming INEC chairman to remain apolitical and avoid close association with politicians to maintain credibility.
“He must keep away from politicians because they are the easiest way to discredit him,” he cautioned. “As much as possible, he should stay focused on building a transparent and efficient electoral system.”
Both speakers agreed that Amupitan’s greatest challenge will be restoring public trust in INEC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“He must listen more than he talks and live the simple, disciplined life he’s always lived,” Olowonihi concluded. “We have no doubt he will succeed and take Nigeria’s elections to a higher standard,”he concluded.
Boluwatife Enome
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