The Senate on Thursday confirmed the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
His confirmation followed a screening session held during the Senate’s plenary in Abuja, where lawmakers examined his qualifications and suitability for the role.
Lawmakers Screen, Approve Nominee
During the session, senators asked Professor Amupitan a series of questions on electoral reforms, transparency, and the credibility of future elections. The nominee responded to all queries before being allowed to take a bow and leave the chamber.
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Following his exit, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion for the restoration of all floor privileges earlier suspended during the screening. The motion, seconded by the Minority Leader, was approved through a voice vote.
Akpabio Announces Confirmation
Presiding over the plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio put Amupitan’s nomination to a voice vote, after which the lawmakers unanimously approved his appointment.
“The nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan for appointment as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission is hereby confirmed,” Akpabio declared.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier nominated Professor Amupitan to succeed Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure expired earlier in October. Before his confirmation, Amupitan had pledged to audit INEC’s 2023 election logistics and ensure reforms that would enhance credibility and public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
