Tinubu Urges New INEC Chairman Amupitan to Uphold Transparency Ahead of 2027 Elections

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday charged the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan, to uphold transparency, inclusivity and non-violence as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. He said credible polls remain the foundation of public trust and democratic stability.

Speaking at the State House in Abuja after administering the oath of office on the new INEC boss, Tinubu described Amupitan’s appointment—confirmed by the Senate a week earlier as a testament to his competence and character.

“I urge you, Professor Amupitan, as you take on this assignment, to protect the integrity of our elections and the institutional capacity of INEC” Tinubu said, expressing confidence in his ability to conduct a credible Anambra State governorship election in November 2025.

The President noted that Nigeria’s democracy, sustained since 1999, has evolved through reforms and lessons from past challenges. He emphasised that the integrity of the electoral process must remain beyond reproach, stressing that transparency at every stage—from registration and campaigning to voting and results collation is key to maintaining public trust.

“Elections safeguard the people’s right to choose their leaders and shape their future. We must keep improving our electoral system, addressing yesterday’s challenges while innovating for tomorrow” he added.

After his swearing-in, Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to uphold the Constitution and deliver credible, free, and fair elections. “I’ve taken the oath of allegiance as Chairman of INEC, and I’ll defend the Constitution and laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Like the President said, credible and fair elections will be my priority” he said.

The new INEC chief pledged to strengthen collaboration with political parties, civil society groups, and security agencies, noting that success depends on cooperation from all stakeholders. He also promised to make staff welfare a priority, recognising INEC’s workforce as vital to credible elections.

Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Professor of Law at the University of Jos, was confirmed by the Senate on October 16, 2025, following the approval of the National Council of State. He succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the longest-serving INEC chairman, who introduced innovations such as BVAS and IReV.

Describing his appointment as divine, Amupitan vowed to restore credibility and public confidence in the electoral system. “If God says go, who are you to say no? My coming here is divine. Together, we will uphold the values of democracy and ensure that every vote counts” he declared.

Earlier, the Acting INEC Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu, officially handed over to Amupitan, commending his record as a legal scholar and administrator. She reminded him of the high expectations ahead of the Anambra election and urged him to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.