Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the sixth substantive Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The swearing-in ceremony took place on Thursday at the State House Council Chamber, Abuja.
Speaking during the event, President Tinubu urged the new INEC Chairman to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and patriotism in discharging his duties. He said Amupitan’s nomination and Senate confirmation reflect the confidence reposed in him by both the executive and legislative arms of government.
> “Your appointment is a testament to your capacity and integrity. I trust that you will serve this nation with a sense of duty, fairness, and dedication to strengthening democracy,” President Tinubu stated.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the President described Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999 as a process of learning, growth, and consolidation. He noted that while significant progress has been made in electoral reforms, there is still a need to deepen transparency and public trust in elections.
> “Our democracy has come a long way in 25 years. We must now remain committed to the principles that underpin democracy in a complex and diverse society. The integrity of our electoral process must remain beyond reproach,” he said.
President Tinubu also highlighted the upcoming Anambra Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025, as a critical test for the new INEC leadership. He emphasized the importance of free, fair, and credible elections as a foundation for national stability and citizen confidence.
> “Elections must reflect the true will of the people. Every aspect of the process—from registration to voting and counting—should be transparent and credible,” the President added.
According to Mediaplusng.com, Professor Amupitan succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who led the electoral body from 2015 to 2025. The 58-year-old academic, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, promised to build on past reforms, strengthen institutional independence, and restore public confidence in the commission.
Professor Amupitan officially assumes office immediately.
