President Bola Tinubu on Thursday encouraged Professor Joash Amupitan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s elections, highlighting that credible polls are essential to any democracy.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja after administering the oath of office, Tinubu remarked that Amupitan’s appointment, confirmed by the Senate a week ago, indicates confidence in his ability and character by both the executive and legislative arms of government.
“I, therefore, encourage you, Professor Amupitan, to safeguard the integrity of our elections, the electoral process, and INEC’s capacity, and I wish you success in your first assignment in November 2025, the Anambra state governorship election.”
The fact that you have been nominated and confirmed as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission speaks volumes about your impressive expertise and the confidence that you inspire.
“This denotes the inception of a challenging yet gratifying journey, and I am confident that you will undertake your duties with the utmost level of integrity, dedication, and patriotism,” Tinubu declared.
The President stressed that Nigeria’s democracy, which has been in place since 1999, had developed through a series of reforms, innovation, and lessons derived from past challenges.
“Our democracy has undergone significant advancements. We have strengthened and stabilized our democratic institutions, particularly our electoral system.
To ensure the continued flourishing of our democracy, the integrity of our electoral system must be beyond reproach,” Tinubu asserted.
Tinubu emphasized that although no electoral system is perfect, credibility and transparency at every stage, including registration, campaigning, voting, and results collation, are essential for maintaining public trust.
“Elections protect the people’s exclusive right to choose their leaders and shape their future.”
Tinubu emphasized the need for continuous improvement in the electoral process, tackling past challenges and innovating for the present and future.
He urged Amupitan to prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and non-violence in future elections.
Following the ceremony, Amupitan assured reporters that he would uphold the Constitution and engage with all stakeholders to ensure credible elections.
“I have taken the oath of allegiance and the oath as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.
I reaffirm my commitment to defend the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as they relate to the electoral system.
As the President stated, I have been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring credible, fair, and free elections, and I will fulfill that mandate,” he stated. The new INEC Chairman emphasized that his leadership would prioritize collaboration with political parties, civil society organizations, and security agencies.
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