‘Your Vote Will Count’— Amupitan Vows Credible Elections as INEC Chairman

Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan on Thursday officially assumed office as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), promising a “new chapter of integrity and teamwork” for Nigeria’s electoral body. He succeeds May Agbamuche-Mbu, who served in an acting capacity.

Amupitan was sworn in by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, in a ceremony that marked the formal start of his tenure. Addressing staff at INEC headquarters in Abuja, he described his appointment as “a divine call to serve the nation” and pledged to uphold the highest standards of transparency, discipline, and accountability.

“INEC’s mandate is clear — to deliver elections that reflect the people’s will. To achieve this, we must work as a team. Let us restore the confidence of every voter that their vote will count,” Amupitan said.

The new chairman also emphasized staff welfare as a key priority. “We expect much from our staff, and we will ensure that they have the resources and conducive working conditions to excel,” he said, calling for greater synergy across departments to maintain the credibility of electoral processes.

Highlighting the importance of the upcoming Anambra State Governorship election, scheduled for November 8, Amupitan said, “The integrity of our elections is not negotiable. The eyes of the nation are upon us.”

Outgoing Acting Chairman May Agbamuche-Mbu described the transition as one of “continuity and renewal,” congratulating Amupitan on his appointment and assuring him of the staff’s support. She highlighted the Commission’s achievements under former Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu, including the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV).

“The foundation has been laid; the path is defined. What lies ahead is consolidation and forward march,” Agbamuche-Mbu said, handing over detailed documents on ongoing programmes and strategic priorities to ensure a smooth transition.

The inauguration was attended by national commissioners, directors, INEC staff, and representatives from the academic community, including officials from the University of Jos, where Amupitan formerly served as Dean of Law.

Hailing from the North-Central region, Amupitan described his appointment as a national honour, noting the pride it brings to the academic community. “I am here to ensure that a new Nigeria is birthed through credible elections,” he said.