Tinubu charges new INEC chair: Serve with integrity,strengthen electoral institutions

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday swore in Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging him to serve with integrity and remain beyond reproach.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, following the Senate’s confirmation of Amupitan’s appointment on October 16.

He succeeds Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman from 2015 to 2025.

Tinubu described Amupitan’s appointment as a vote of confidence in his capacity and character by both the executive and legislative arms of government.

“Your nomination and subsequent confirmation are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you.

“This is the beginning of a challenging but rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibility with integrity, dedication and patriotism,” the President said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic progress since 1999, Tinubu noted that the country has strengthened its institutions and electoral processes through continuous reforms.

“Our democracy has come a long way in 25 years.

“We must now remain committed to the principles that underpin democracy in a complex and multifaceted society,” he said.

The President stressed the importance of credible elections, describing them as the foundation of public trust in democratic governance.

He said the forthcoming November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State would serve as a litmus test for the new INEC leadership.

“To maintain public trust, electoral integrity must be protected.

“Every aspect of the process — from registration to campaigning, voting and counting — must be transparent, non-violent and credible,” Tinubu said.

He charged the new chairman to strengthen the institutional capacity of INEC and safeguard the electoral process against manipulation.

Amupitan, 58, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and university professor, pledged during his Senate screening to reform Nigeria’s electoral system, enhance the commission’s independence, and rebuild public trust.

He is expected to assume office immediately.