The Senate has officially confirmed Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The confirmation came after a voice vote led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following a thorough screening where Amupitan answered lawmakers’ questions.
Amupitan arrived at the National Assembly accompanied by the Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Ododo, and other dignitaries. With special approval, he was allowed into the Senate chamber ahead of the exercise.
Senate President Akpabio welcomed Amupitan and his family, noting that he was cleared by the National Security Adviser, Department of State Services, and the Police for any criminal record after thorough vetting.
During the screening, Amupitan shared his vision for credible elections and detailed plans for institutional reforms within INEC, including advancing the use of technology in Nigeria’s electoral processes.
As INEC Chairman, Amupitan will oversee preparations for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections. He succeeds Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and is known for his expertise in constitutional and international law, holding a position as Professor of Law and former Dean at the University of Jos.
President Bola Tinubu had nominated him, with the nomination officially read on the Senate floor just days prior to the confirmation.
