Tinubu Urges INEC Chairman to Prioritize Transparency and Peace Ahead of 2027 Elections
Tinubu Urges INEC Chairman to Prioritize Transparency and Peace Ahead of 2027 Elections
President Bola Tinubu has urged Professor Joash Amupitan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to prioritize transparency and non-violence as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. Speaking at the State House in Abuja shortly after administering the oath of office to Amupitan, Tinubu emphasized that credible elections are essential for maintaining public trust and democratic stability.
Tinubu, whose appointment was confirmed by the Senate last week, expressed confidence in Amupitan’s competence and character, describing his appointment as a sign of trust from both the executive and legislative branches. He called on the new INEC boss to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process and to safeguard the institutional capacity of INEC.
“I urge you, Professor Amupitan, to protect the integrity of our elections and the electoral process. Your first assignment in November 2025, the governorship election in Anambra State, will be a test of your leadership,” Tinubu said. “This appointment signifies a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibilities with integrity, dedication, and patriotism.”
The President highlighted Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999, noting that reforms, innovations, and lessons from past challenges have strengthened the electoral system. He stressed that electoral credibility—through transparency at every stage, from registration to vote counting—is critical in sustaining public trust.
“To maintain public confidence, our elections must be transparent, non-violent, and credible,” Tinubu stated. “Elections are the cornerstone of democracy, allowing citizens to choose their leaders and determine their future. We must continually improve and innovate our electoral processes.”
Tinubu also called on Amupitan to focus on transparency, inclusivity, and peaceful conduct in forthcoming elections. After the ceremony, Amupitan assured that he would uphold the Constitution and collaborate with all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, and security agencies, to ensure credible elections.
“I have taken the oath to defend the Constitution and the laws relating to Nigeria’s electoral system. My mandate is to deliver free, fair, and credible elections,” Amupitan affirmed. He expressed his commitment to working with all stakeholders for the success of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Amupitan succeeds Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman since 2015 and oversaw the 2019 and 2023 elections. Confirmed by the Senate on October 16, 2025, Amupitan is Nigeria’s first INEC chair from Kogi State, North-Central Nigeria.
At his inaugural meeting with INEC staff and directors, Amupitan emphasized teamwork, discipline, and integrity as keys to restoring public confidence. He described the upcoming Anambra State governorship election as a critical opportunity to demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to electoral credibility.
He also pledged to prioritize staff welfare, ensuring conducive working conditions and adequate resources for the commission’s personnel. Accompanied by family and colleagues from the University of Jos, where he is a professor of law, Amupitan expressed his readiness for the challenging task ahead.
Despite the enormity of his responsibilities, Amupitan remains optimistic, encouraging colleagues to uphold democratic values and work tirelessly for credible elections.
