The new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has promised to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s elections, describing it as non-negotiable.

Speaking at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja after being sworn in by President Bola Tinubu, Amupitan said his focus is to deliver elections that reflect the people’s true will.

He told directors at his first meeting that he intends to start proving that commitment with the upcoming Anambra State governorship election on November 8.

Amupitan recalled that during his Senate screening on October 16, he had pledged that under his leadership, losers in elections would congratulate winners.

“It is with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as your new Chairman,” he said.

“Our mandate is clear, to deliver free, fair and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people.”

He added that the integrity of elections depends not only on INEC’s preparation but also on cooperation from politicians, staff, and the public.

“Credibility in our election is paramount, and we must ensure every voter feels confident that their vote will count,” he said.

Focus on voter confidence and staff welfare

Amupitan urged his team to work in unity, stressing that synergy across departments was key to achieving credible polls.

“Let’s restore the confidence of every voter so that whenever there’s an election, people believe their vote will count,” he said.

He noted that staff welfare would remain a top priority, saying, “We’re going to expect much from you, but we must also give much.

We’ll work tirelessly to ensure your conditions are conducive and that you have the tools to excel.”

The INEC chair described the Anambra election as a test of the commission’s readiness. “It represents a pivotal opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to free, fair, and credible elections,” he said.

Amupitan called his appointment a divine call, saying he was ready to play his part in strengthening democracy.

“Some people told me they don’t envy me, but I’m excited about the journey ahead. The path may be challenging, but if we stand united, there’s nothing we can’t achieve,” he said.

Tinubu charges Amupitan to serve with integrity

President Bola Tinubu had earlier sworn in Amupitan as INEC’s sixth substantive chairman, urging him to serve with integrity and dedication.

“Your nomination and confirmation are a testament to your capacity and the confidence both arms of government have in you,” Tinubu said in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

The President said Nigeria’s democracy had grown stronger since 1999, with reforms improving transparency. He added that the upcoming Anambra election would serve as a test for the new INEC leadership.

“It’s important that our elections are free, fair and credible,” Tinubu said. “To maintain public trust, electoral integrity must be protected from registration to counting.”

Former acting INEC Chair May Agbamuche-Mbu, who handed over to Amupitan, praised his appointment as a recognition of his record as a legal scholar and patriot.

She said the commission was prepared for the Anambra poll and that Amupitan was stepping onto a solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

She urged him to consolidate the progress achieved under Yakubu, including the use of technology-driven systems like BVAS and IReV.

Amupitan thanked the commission’s management, staff, and media, promising an inclusive and accountable leadership. “Together, we’ll uphold democracy and work tirelessly for credible elections,” he said.