Photos: New INEC Chairman Amupitan assumes office

Nigeria’s new electoral umpire, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, on Thursday officially took charge as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and he wasted no time setting the tone for reform.

In a charged handover ceremony at the Commission’s Abuja headquarters, Amupitan urged INEC staff to “break down silos” and work as a united force to rebuild public confidence in the electoral system.

He declared a “dual mission” for his tenure to strengthen internal unity and restore national trust in elections.

“Our duty is clear to work together as one family and speak with one voice. Nigerians are watching, and INEC must not fail,” he said.

The handover came with emotion and symbolism as Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, the Acting Chairman, formally presented the reins of leadership to the new helmsman, describing the moment as “a significant day in Nigeria’s democratic journey.”

She noted that Amupitan’s appointment came at a critical time, just weeks before the Anambra Governorship Election on November 8, 2025.

“You are assuming office at a most crucial time,” she said. “The task ahead is enormous, but you are stepping onto firm and fertile ground.”

The event brought together INEC’s 23 departmental directors, tagged “generals on the field of electioneering,” alongside a delegation from the University of Jos, Amupitan’s alma mater, led by the Vice-Chancellor and top management.

Also in attendance were his wife, Professor Yemisi Amupitan, and their children, who watched as he began what many described as a new era of electoral accountability and integrity.

As the Anambra election countdown begins, Amupitan’s first major test will be uniting the Commission and proving that credible elections are still possible in Nigeria.