As Nigerians prepare to cast their votes to elect leaders who represent their interests in the upcoming 2027 general elections, the newly appointed Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Joash Amupitan, has affirmed his commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and discipline in the electoral process, promising that elections under his leadership will be free, fair, and just.
Amupitan said the upcoming Anambra gubernatorial poll, scheduled for November 8, 2025, will serve as a pivotal opportunity to demonstrate the commission’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.
The commission boss, who emphasized the need to restore voter confidence and address voter apathy, made this pledge on Thursday at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, where the Acting Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu, formally handed over the commission’s notes to him.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion. Let us break down silos, foster open communication, and create an environment where every voice is heard and valued,” he urged.
In his inaugural address, Professor Amupitan expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment and acknowledged the weight of the responsibility bestowed upon him.
Professor Amupitan further emphasized that the welfare of staff would constitute a paramount priority within the agenda of his administration.
“It’s a priority because we are going to expect so much from you, so we need to be honest in meeting your expectations,” he said, promising to be just and fair.
He concluded on a hopeful note, expressing his belief in the collective ability of the commission to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. “Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly to create legitimacy in our elections.”
Earlier, Agbamuche-Mbu, in her heartfelt welcome address, highlighted the critical timing of Amupitan’s appointment, coming as the commission finalizes preparations for the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025.
“You are assuming office at a most crucial time,” she stated, noting the absence of four National Commissioners who were currently in Anambra State on a readiness assessment exercise.
“The task ahead is enormous. Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and the expectations of Nigerians have never been higher.”
She assured the new chairman that he was stepping onto “firm and fertile ground” laid by his predecessors and expressed unwavering confidence in the staff of INEC, whom she described as “some of the finest, most experienced, and most patriotic public servants in Nigeria.”
