Integrity of Nigeria’s Elections Non-Negotiable — New INEC Chairman, Prof. Amupitan

The newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has vowed to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, declaring that it is “non-negotiable.”

Speaking at the INEC headquarters in Abuja during his inaugural meeting with directors after being sworn in by President Bola Tinubu, Amupitan pledged to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the genuine will of Nigerians.

He promised that his leadership would demonstrate this commitment during the upcoming Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025.

Reaffirming a statement he made during his Senate screening on October 16, the INEC Chairman said:

“Under my watch, losers will congratulate winners after elections.”

Dressed in a white agbada, Amupitan arrived at the commission’s headquarters at 2:54 p.m., accompanied by his family and officials from the University of Jos, led by its Vice Chancellor.

“It is with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as your new Chairman. Our mandate is clear — to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people,” he said.

He stressed that credibility in elections depends on collaboration among stakeholders — including politicians, the public, and INEC staff — and called for synergy across all departments of the commission.

“Our preparation, no matter how good it may be, is only as effective as the cooperation and support we receive from stakeholders. Credibility in our elections is paramount, and we must ensure every voter feels confident that their vote will count. The integrity of our elections is not something we should ever negotiate,” he declared.

Restoring Voter Confidence

Prof. Amupitan emphasized restoring public trust in the electoral process, noting that voter apathy must be addressed through transparency and accountability.

“Let us restore the confidence of every voter that their vote will count. We must not compromise our values or processes because that would have dire consequences,” he said.

He also pledged to prioritize staff welfare, promising improved working conditions and adequate resources to enhance efficiency.

“We are going to expect a lot from our staff, but we must also give them the tools and motivation to succeed,” he added.

Describing his appointment as a “divine call,” Amupitan said he remains undeterred by the enormity of the task ahead.

“Many people have told me they don’t envy this position, but I am excited about the journey. Together, we will uphold the values of democracy and ensure the credibility of our elections. If God says go, who are you to say no? I believe I have a role to play in birthing a new Nigeria,” he said.

Transition and Challenges Ahead

Earlier, outgoing Acting Chairman Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu officially handed over to Amupitan, praising his record as a legal scholar and administrator. She said his appointment came at a crucial time, with the Anambra governorship election fast approaching.

“You are assuming office at a most crucial time. The task ahead is enormous, but you are stepping onto the firm foundation laid by your predecessor, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who introduced technology-driven reforms such as BVAS and IReV,” she said.

She assured Amupitan of the loyalty and professionalism of INEC staff, describing them as “some of the finest and most patriotic public servants in Nigeria.”

Tinubu’s Charge: Serve with Integrity

Earlier in the day, President Bola Tinubu had sworn in Prof. Amupitan as INEC’s sixth substantive chairman during a ceremony at the State House Council Chamber.

In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu urged Amupitan to “serve with integrity and beyond reproach.”

“Your nomination and confirmation are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you. This is a challenging but rewarding journey. Approach it with integrity, dedication, and patriotism,” Tinubu said.

He noted that Nigeria’s democracy has made significant progress since 1999 through electoral innovations and institutional reforms but emphasized that the credibility of elections remains vital.

“Our democracy has come a long way in 25 years. To maintain public trust, the integrity of our electoral process must be beyond reproach,” he added.

The President said the Anambra election would serve as a major test for Amupitan’s leadership.

“It is important that our elections remain free, fair, and credible. To protect public trust, every stage — from registration to voting and counting — must be transparent and non-violent,” Tinubu stated.

In a brief interview after the ceremony, Prof. Amupitan said he had been given a clear mandate by the President to ensure credible, transparent, and fair elections across the country.

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