Professor Ojo Amupitan
By Olamilekan Abayomi
The Senate has confirmed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This confirmation follows a screening session by lawmakers in the Senate Chamber, where Amupitan answered critical questions regarding elections, administration, policy, and the Electoral Act.
Amupitan’s confirmation is a significant development, given his background as a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). He is also the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos and Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University in Osun State.
During his screening, Amupitan pledged to ensure INEC’s independence and audit the electoral system to restore public confidence. He also promised to investigate the glitches that occurred during the 2023 Presidential election, which eroded public trust in the electoral process.
As the new INEC Chairman, Amupitan faces significant challenges, including managing upcoming elections, restoring public trust, and maintaining the commission’s independence in a hyper-partisan environment. His leadership is expected to bring renewed integrity and professionalism to the electoral commission.
Amupitan’s appointment has been welcomed by some, with Bayo Olupogunda describing it as a “tough job” and wishing him well. However, others have expressed concerns about the appointment, citing the need for fairness and patriotism in the role. Nche Bikwe urged Amupitan to be fair, while Idan Gangan questioned the appointment’s fairness to the Southwest region, noting that they have never produced an INEC chairman.
As the first person from the North-Central region to be nominated for the position, Amupitan’s confirmation is seen as a significant development in Nigeria’s electoral history.
