President Bola Tinubu has urged the newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, to uphold integrity and ensure Nigeria’s elections remain free, fair and credible. He recently made the plea in Abuja after swearing in Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the sixth substantive chairman of INEC.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the State House Council Chamber, Tinubu described Amupitan’s appointment and Senate confirmation as proof of confidence in his capacity and character.
According to him, the total confidence shown in Amupitan by the executive and the legislative arms of government should help the new INEC chairman approach his challenging position with utmost integrity.
Insisting that Nigeria has made notable progress in strengthening democratic institutions through reforms and innovations, BAT told Amupitan to stay committed to upholding true democracy.
“Your nomination and subsequent confirmation by the Senate are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you by both the executive and the legislative arms of government.
This significant achievement marks the beginning of a challenging, yet rewarding journey. I trust that you will approach your responsibility with the highest level of integrity, dedication, and patriotism.
Our democracy has come a long way in 25 years. We have consolidated and strengthened our democratic institutions, particularly in the electoral system.
We must remain committed to the principles that underpin democracy in a complex and multifaceted society,” he said.
He further noted that the integrity of the electoral process must remain intact, stressing that the November 8, 2025, Anambra governorship election would serve as a litmus test for the new INEC leadership.
Tinubu concluded by saying that to maintain public trust, electoral integrity must be protected.
“It is important that our elections are free, fair and credible.
We must consistently improve our electoral process, addressing the challenges of yesterday and innovating for today and tomorrow.
To maintain public trust, electoral integrity must be protected. All aspects of the process — from registration to campaigning, media access, voting and counting — should be transparent, non-violent and credible,” he added.
