Nigeria Appoints Law Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as New Electoral Chie

President Bola Tinubu nominates an “apolitical” scholar to lead electoral reforms and restore public trust in Nigeria’s voting system.

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has nominated Joash Ojo Amupitan, a respected law professor, as the country’s new electoral chief. If confirmed by the Senate, Amupitan will become the first native of Kogi State to head Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The 58-year-old scholar’s nomination comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over Nigeria’s electoral process, with citizens and political parties calling for improved transparency, enhanced technology, and faster result announcements.

A Scholar with Decades of Legal Expertise

Amupitan currently serves as the deputy vice-chancellor at University of Jos. With more than three decades of experience in academia and legal practice, his areas of specialization include public law, corporate governance, privatization, and the law of evidence.

In 2014, his remarkable contributions to the legal profession earned him the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). He is also a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, Nigerian Institute of Management, and National Association of Law Teachers.

Political Neutrality Welcomed

President Tinubu described Amupitan as “apolitical,” a label welcomed by both supporters and opposition groups. The nomination was confirmed by the National Council of State, and his name will now be forwarded to the Senate for final screening.

Observers believe that Amupitan’s reputation for independence and legal rigor positions him well to handle the sensitive responsibilities of electoral management in Nigeria’s politically charged environment.

Restoring Trust in the Electoral System

Amupitan’s appointment comes as INEC faces growing demands for reform. Issues such as delays in result collation, voter disenfranchisement, and technological glitches have eroded public confidence.

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Many hope that his background in electoral law reform will help strengthen the voter register’s integrity, ensure efficient use of technology, and build a more transparent electoral system.

Opposition Parties React

Leaders of opposition parties have cautiously welcomed the nomination, urging Amupitan to prioritize national interest over political loyalty. Bolaji Abdullahi of African Democratic Congress (ADC) said, “We are willing to give him the benefit of doubt based on his track record. He should therefore look beyond the interest of those who have appointed him.”

Similarly, Timothy Osadolor of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) emphasized the need for bold reforms, stating, “The fate of over 200 million Nigerians rests on his shoulders.”

Ruling Party Pledges Support

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with Amupitan. A party spokesperson described him as the “perfect choice” to lead electoral transformation and deliver credible polls.

With broad expectations from both sides of the political spectrum, his leadership will be under intense public and media scrutiny.

First Major Task Awaits

If approved by the Senate, Amupitan’s first major responsibility will be overseeing the upcoming Anambra governorship election scheduled for next month. Political analysts believe how he manages this poll will set the tone for his tenure and shape the public’s perception of INEC under his leadership.

His performance in this critical test could define the trajectory of Nigeria’s democratic reforms in the years to come.

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