Cynthia Ezegwu
The newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has pledged to restore credibility and public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process, describing his appointment as a divine call to serve the nation.
Speaking shortly after his inauguration by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday, Amupitan said his mission is to deliver free, fair, and credible elections while upholding democratic values across the country.
“Our mandate is clear — to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. To achieve this, we must work together as a team,” the INEC chairman told directors and senior staff during his first official meeting at the commission’s headquarters.
He emphasised that transparency, discipline, and teamwork would be central to achieving INEC’s mandate, adding that every election under his leadership must inspire voter confidence.
“The upcoming Anambra State governorship election is not just another exercise; it represents an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to credible polls,” he said. “The eyes of the nation are upon us, and we must ensure that every voter believes their vote will count.”
Amupitan also identified staff welfare as a top priority, acknowledging that a motivated workforce is critical to credible elections. “We’ll work assiduously to ensure our working conditions are conducive and that our staff are well-equipped to deliver on their duties,” he assured.
READ ALSO: Amupitan Arrives Aso Rock for Swearing-In as INEC Chairman
Expressing gratitude to his colleagues at the University of Jos, where he served before his appointment, the law professor said his emergence as INEC chairman was divinely ordained.
“Maybe if I had a choice, I would say I would not come here. But I believe my appointment is part of God’s plan. I’m here because I have a role to play in ensuring a new Nigeria is born,” he said.
Amupitan urged Nigerians to support INEC’s reforms and reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of the ballot as a foundation for national stability and democratic growth.