The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His confirmation followed a voice vote conducted by Senate President Godswill Akpabio after a screening session where Amupitan addressed questions from lawmakers on electoral reforms and transparency.
Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Dean of Law at the University of Jos, was accompanied to the National Assembly by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo and other dignitaries. President Bola Tinubu had earlier nominated him to replace Professor Mahmood Yakubu as INEC Chairman, a move conveyed to the Senate through a formal letter read by Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary.
Before his appearance, Amupitan underwent security clearance from the National Security Adviser’s office, the Department of State Services, and the Inspector-General of Police, all confirming he had no criminal record. His screening began shortly after 12:55 p.m., with Senate leaders commending his distinguished academic and legal background.
During the session, Amupitan outlined his vision for strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system, promising institutional reforms, enhanced voter education, and deeper integration of technology in election management. He emphasized the need to build public trust and ensure free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
With his confirmation, Professor Amupitan will immediately assume responsibility for INEC’s ongoing preparations for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and will lead the commission into the 2027 general elections.