The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The confirmation followed a screening session by lawmakers in the Senate Chamber, where Amupitan responded to questions on electoral reforms, electoral malpractices, and the independence of INEC.
During the screening, senators grilled Amupitan on his plans to enhance electoral credibility and transparency, strengthen institutional independence within INEC, and expand the use of technology in voter registration and result collation.
Amupitan, a Professor of Law at the University of Jos and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was nominated by President Bola Tinubu to succeed Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure ended after two terms.
The Senate’s decision comes after the Council of State unanimously approved Amupitan’s nomination, describing him as an “apolitical” figure.
With his confirmation, Amupitan is expected to lead INEC in conducting several off-cycle governorship elections and implementing electoral reforms.
Key Challenges Ahead:
- Electoral Reforms: Amupitan will need to implement reforms to enhance the credibility and transparency of Nigeria’s electoral process.
- Technological Integration: He will be expected to expand the use of technology in voter registration, transmission, and result collation.
- Institutional Independence: Strengthening INEC’s independence will be crucial in ensuring the credibility of future elections ⁴.
