Senate Confirms Amupitan as INEC Chairman
By Inemesit Friday
The Senate has confirmed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
His confirmation followed a thorough screening on Thursday, during which lawmakers questioned him for over three hours on his qualifications, independence, and plans for credible elections.
Presiding over the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Amupitan’s confirmation after an overwhelming voice vote in his favour, with no dissenting opinions. Akpabio urged him to ensure that every vote counts in future elections.
During the screening, Amupitan denied reports that he served as a legal counsel to the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 presidential election petitions, insisting that official case files are available for public verification.
He assured senators that under his leadership, elections would be transparent and credible, saying he envisions a Nigeria where “losers congratulate winners.” He also pledged to strengthen logistics, enhance the security of election materials through cloning technology, and intensify voter education.
Before his confirmation, Akpabio informed the Senate that Amupitan had been cleared by the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and the Inspector-General of Police, who confirmed he has no criminal record.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier written to the Senate seeking Amupitan’s confirmation in line with Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution, urging lawmakers to give his nomination urgent attention.
With Thursday’s confirmation, Amupitan officially assumes office as the nation’s chief electoral umpire, succeeding Mahmood Yakubu.
