Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN has formally assumed office as the substantive Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), succeeding Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
The swearing-in ceremony was presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where the new INEC boss pledged to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process and strengthen the commission’s institutional capacity.
Shortly after the inauguration, Chairman Amupitan proceeded to INEC headquarters in Abuja, where he was received by the acting chairman, commissioners, and senior staff. His first official engagement is expected to be a meeting with management to set the tone for his administration.
A legal scholar hailing from Kogi State and a professor at the University of Jos, Amupitan was nominated by the President, unanimously endorsed by the National Council of State, and confirmed by the Senate via voice vote.
With his confirmation, Amupitan inherits critical upcoming assignments, including overseeing the Anambra State governorship election in November 2025 and the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections in early 2026.
As he steps into the role, many observers and civil society groups are watching closely, calling for a continuation of reforms and enhanced transparency to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.