Amupitan Pledges Collaboration With National Assembly For Credible, Fair Elections

Amupitan Pledges Collaboration With National Assembly For Credible, Fair Elections

In a significant move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic processes, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has pledged to work closely with the National Assembly to ensure the delivery of credible, fair, and transparent elections across the country.

This commitment was made public during his address at the 56th Annual National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers (NALT), held at the Federal University of Lokoja. The event also served as a platform to honor Amupitan for his dedication and service to the legal and electoral community.

Amupitan, who was confirmed by the Nigerian Senate on October 16, 2025, and subsequently sworn in by President Bola Tinubu on October 23, emphasized the importance of a robust legal framework in achieving electoral integrity. He stated that law is not merely a set of rules but the foundation upon which societies build progress. In his remarks, he stressed that the Commission would actively engage with lawmakers to ensure that amendments to the Electoral Act reflect lessons learned from previous elections and bolster public confidence in the electoral process.

One of the key goals of the ongoing reform, according to Amupitan, is to reduce the frequency of electoral litigations by promoting fairness and transparency at every stage of the electoral cycle. He expressed a desire for a future where electoral petitions are no longer a common feature in Nigerian courts, advocating instead for a system that genuinely reflects the will of the people. His statement, “Let us not see electoral petitions in court,” underscored his vision for a more seamless and dispute-free electoral process.

During the conference, Amupitan was presented with a plaque by the Federal University of Lokoja in recognition of his hard work, dedication, and inspirational leadership. He used the occasion to call on the academic community to continue supporting initiatives aimed at deepening Nigeria’s democracy, highlighting the critical role that scholars and legal experts play in shaping electoral reforms and public policy.

Amupitan’s appointment follows the departure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman from 2015 until October 2025. His tenure was marked by both achievements and controversies, with some critics describing it as a national disgrace. Amupitan’s emergence signals a new chapter for the Commission, with expectations high for a more collaborative and reform-driven leadership.

In summary, Professor Amupitan’s pledge to collaborate with the National Assembly represents a proactive step toward electoral reform in Nigeria. His emphasis on legal structure, transparency, and academic engagement reflects a comprehensive approach to building a more credible and fair electoral system.

As the country prepares for future elections, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these commitments translate into tangible improvements in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.