Anambra Governorship Election Will Test INEC’s Credibility Under Amupitan — Accord Party

The Accord Party has said that the upcoming November 8, 2025 Anambra governorship election will serve as a crucial test of credibility for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under its new chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan.

In a statement signed by Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, the party’s National Chairman, Accord congratulated Professor Amupitan on his swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following his confirmation by both the Council of State and the National Assembly.

Describing the appointment as “well deserved,” Accord commended Amupitan’s professional record and academic achievements, saying his reputation as a respected legal scholar and administrator makes him suitable for the top electoral role.

“It is a well-deserved appointment based on his track record and wealth of experience as a legal luminary, esteemed academic and seasoned administrator,” the statement read.

The party urged the new INEC chairman to uphold courage, impartiality, and transparency as he assumes office at a time when public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process must be restored.

“The challenges ahead are enormous and will require patriotism and collaboration with critical stakeholders to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections,” the statement added.

Turning its attention to the Anambra governorship poll, Accord said Nigerians expect INEC to demonstrate competence through effective logistics, timely deployment of materials, and transparency in result management.

“Adequate preparation should be made ensuring that electoral materials and equipment are ready and functional to avoid glitches and logistical issues,” the party noted.

“Being the first election to be conducted by Professor Joash Amupitan, all eyes will be on the commission to rate his performance.”

The party stressed that the credibility of the Anambra election would influence public confidence in upcoming electoral cycles — including the 2026 FCT Area Council elections, the Ekiti and Osun governorship polls, and the 2027 general elections.

Accord also advised Professor Amupitan to build upon and improve the reforms introduced by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, in order to enhance transparency and minimize post-election disputes.

“The party urges Professor Amupitan to consolidate on the innovations introduced by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and improve on them to deliver credible and acceptable elections. This will go a long way to rebuild trust in the electoral process and reduce litigations that overheat the polity after elections,” the statement said.

Wishing him a successful tenure, Accord expressed confidence that Professor Amupitan’s leadership would help strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and restore citizens’ faith in the ballot.

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