ADC Gives Benefit of Doubt to Amupitan’s INEC Chairmanship

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has responded to the nomination of Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by President Bola Tinubu. The opposition party has indicated readiness to assess the new chairman on his performance and expressed cautious optimism about his ability to lead the electoral body effectively.

Professor Amupitan’s nomination follows the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC chairman from 2015 to October 2025. The National Council of State recently approved Amupitan’s nomination, with council members describing him as apolitical and of integrity. The next step involves the Senate conducting a screening process in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Background and Expectations

Born on April 25, 1967, Amupitan hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, marking the first time a person from the state has been nominated to lead INEC. He is a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, Plateau State, where he also earned his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, including a PhD in 2007. He became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2014 and has served in multiple administrative roles, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos and Pro-Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University in Osun State.

Amupitan’s expertise spans Company Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law. His extensive academic and legal background positions him to navigate the complex regulatory and operational landscape of Nigeria’s electoral system. The ADC noted that the new chairman’s tenure is expected to extend beyond a single electoral cycle, highlighting the importance of impartiality and a focus on restoring public confidence in Nigerian elections.

The opposition party emphasized that Amupitan’s loyalty should be to the Nigerian people rather than the government, and the public will be monitoring his approach to ensure transparency, integrity, and fairness. While the party remains cautious, it is willing to allow the new INEC chairman the opportunity to establish a track record that upholds democratic principles and promotes credible elections.

Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan Approved to Lead INEC

Nomination Process and Political Context

Amupitan’s appointment received unanimous backing from the National Council of State, with the President’s spokesperson confirming the council’s approval. The nomination aligns with constitutional provisions, and the next procedural step involves the Senate’s confirmation process. Analysts note that Amupitan’s leadership comes at a critical juncture, with upcoming elections requiring an electoral commission that can navigate both logistical and political challenges.

The ADC’s response underscores the party’s focus on institutional credibility and the importance of electoral integrity in strengthening democracy. By giving the new INEC chairman the benefit of the doubt, the opposition highlights the need for a non-partisan approach to electoral management and encourages public oversight and accountability.

As Amupitan prepares to assume his duties, the political landscape in Nigeria awaits a period of scrutiny and evaluation of his ability to maintain impartiality and promote confidence in the country’s electoral processes. His tenure will test the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy and the effectiveness of the INEC in administering free and fair elections across all levels of government.