President Bola Tinubu has sworn in the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Ojo Amupitan, urging him to serve with integrity and fairness.
The ceremony took place on Thursday at the State House Council Chamber in Abuja.
Tinubu said Amupitan’s appointment, confirmed by the Senate, reflected confidence in his capacity and character.
“This marks the start of a challenging but rewarding journey. I trust that you will approach your duty with the highest level of integrity, dedication and patriotism,” Tinubu said.
He noted that Nigeria’s democracy had made progress since 1999 and that the electoral process must remain transparent and credible.
“The electoral process grants the people the power to choose their leaders. Its integrity must be beyond reproach,” he added.
Tinubu said the upcoming Anambra governorship election in November 2025 would test the new INEC leadership.
“It is important that our elections are free, fair and credible. We must continue to improve the process and protect public trust,” the president stated.
In his response, Prof Amupitan promised to conduct credible, free and fair elections, saying he would work with all stakeholders to strengthen the system.
“I have been given a clear charge to ensure credible elections. I will defend the Constitution and engage all stakeholders to achieve this,” he said.
Amupitan, 58, succeeds Prof Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman from 2015 to 2025.
