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New INEC Boss Amupitan Takes Helm, Calls for 'Silo-Breaking' Unity Ahead of Anambra Poll
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) today inaugurated a new era of leadership as Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, formally took office as the substantive Chairman, immediately setting a dual agenda for internal unity and a renewed focus on national electoral confidence.
In a handover ceremony at the INEC headquarters, outgoing Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, presented the handover notes, stressing the criticality of the new Chairman's appointment just ahead of the November 8, 2025, Anambra State Governorship Election. "You are assuming office at a most crucial time," Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu stated, assuring Professor Amupitan he was stepping onto "firm and fertile ground."
In his inaugural address, the new Chairman, who acknowledged his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, immediately zeroed in on the Anambra poll as "a pivotal opportunity" to demonstrate INEC’s commitment to credible elections.
He told the management and staff of the commission, "Let us break down silos," he urged, stressing the need to "foster open communications and create an environment where every voice is heard and valued." This push for synergy is integral to his overall mandate: to address voter apathy and restore the confidence of Nigerians in the electoral process.
The new Chairman also promised to make staff welfare a top priority, stating, "It's a priority because we are going to expect so much from you. So, we also need to be honest to meet your expectations."
Professor Amupitan concluded with a commitment to "upholding the highest standard of integrity, transparency, and discipline," expressing his belief that the Commission’s collective effort will ultimately strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
The event was attended by Professor Amupitan's family, including his wife, Professor Yemisi Amupitan, and a high-powered delegation from his alma mater, the University of Jos.