By THE newly-appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has said that the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election in November presents an opportunity for his leadership and the Commission’s staff to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections.
Professor Amupitan made this known on Thursday during his inaugural address to staff of the Commission, where he was received by the immediate past Acting Chairman, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu.
Describing his assumption of office as the beginning of a new chapter for INEC, Professor Amupitan affirmed his resolve to ensure that the Commission under his watch upholds the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and discipline in all its operations.
He stated: “I have been entrusted with a herculean and vital responsibility at a defining moment in our nation’s democratic journey. I am truly honoured to stand before you today as your new Chairman. As we begin this new chapter, I assure you of my absolute commitment to maintaining the highest level of integrity, transparency, and discipline in all our undertakings.
“Our mandate as INEC is clear — to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. To achieve this, we must work as a cohesive team, leveraging our diverse skills and expertise to enhance our performance. This interaction marks the beginning of that journey. The goal is to harness our collective wisdom to fulfil our constitutional duty.”
Professor Amupitan stressed the significance of the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, noting that it offers INEC a pivotal opportunity to reaffirm public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“As we gather here today, it is important to recognise the critical role we play in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future,” he said. “The Anambra election is not merely another exercise; it is a defining moment to demonstrate our commitment to credible polls. The eyes of the nation are upon us, and we must rise to that responsibility.”
Speaking on preparations for the election, he emphasised the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, including political actors and the general public.
“I have been briefed by the former Acting Chairman, but regardless of our level of preparation, success will depend on the cooperation and support we receive from stakeholders — particularly the politicians and the electorate. The credibility of elections is paramount, and we must ensure that every voter feels confident that their vote counts. Let us work together in unity and restore faith in the process,” he said.
Earlier, Mrs Agbamuche-Mbu assured Professor Amupitan of the full cooperation of the National Commissioners and staff, noting that he was inheriting a strong institutional foundation.
She stated: “The task ahead is enormous. Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and public expectations have never been higher. However, you are not stepping into an empty field. You are inheriting the solid foundation laid by your predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, under whose leadership INEC achieved remarkable innovations — from the introduction of technology-driven processes such as BVAS and IReV, to the strengthening of institutional transparency and voter confidence. The groundwork has been done; the path is defined. What remains is to build, consolidate, and advance.”
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