In a move that’s already stirring national attention, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN)
as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)— signaling what many see as a fresh chapter for Nigeria’s electoral body.
The announcement came shortly after a National Council of State meeting held in Abuja, where Amupitan’s nomination received unanimous approval. The President is now expected to forward his name to the Senate for official screening and confirmation.
Prof. Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and respected academic, hails from Ayetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State With this appointment, he becomes the first Kogi-born Nigerian to head the nation’s electoral commission.
Known for his deep knowledge of Company Law, Corporate Governance, and Evidence, Amupitan has built a reputation in the legal world for excellence, integrity, and discipline. His appointment follows the recent exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served as INEC Chairman from 2015 to October 2025.
Before the appointment, May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner, briefly held the position in an acting capacity.
Observers say Tinubu’s choice of a legal scholar rather than a career politician could be a deliberate attempt to restore public trust and credibility in the electoral process — a much-needed boost as Nigeria prepares for future elections.
Reactions have already begun pouring in across political and civic circles, with many Nigerians watching closely to see whether Amupitan’s leadership will usher in reforms and transparency in how the electoral body conducts its affairs.
For now, all eyes are on the Senate, where his confirmation will determine the next chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey.