The new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, says Nigeria needs to reach a point where elections are so fair and credible that losers willingly congratulate winners.
He made this statement on Thursday during his screening by the Nigerian Senate, shortly before he was officially confirmed as the new head of the electoral body.
Prof. Amupitan, a Professor of Law, promised to review the Electoral Act and make necessary changes to improve the transparency and fairness of the electoral process.
“We’re going to look at how elections can be credible, so that the loser will come and say, ‘You won fairly and well,’” Amupitan told lawmakers.
“It should be like when a judge gives a sentence, even the convict agrees justice has been done.”
He said many Nigerians no longer trust the electoral system because of past irregularities, including vote-buying, violence, and delayed election results. According to him, improving the system will help restore voter confidence and encourage more citizens to participate in future elections.
Amupitan also pointed out that there are inconsistencies in the timing and organization of elections in Nigeria. He said part of his job will be to examine these issues and make recommendations that will ensure a more reliable and timelier electoral calendar.
“We have to fix the gaps in our electoral system,” he said. “If we do, people will have more faith in democracy and accept results more peacefully.”
Amupitan faced over two hours of questioning by the Senate before his confirmation. During the session, senators raised concerns about electoral violence, manipulation of results, and lack of internal democracy in political parties.
The new INEC chairman said he understands the weight of the responsibility placed on him and promised to work closely with all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society groups, and security agencies, to deliver free, fair, and credible elections.
Prof. Joash Amupitan was recently nominated by President Bola Tinubu to head Nigeria’s electoral commission, following the expiration of the tenure of the former INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. His appointment comes at a time when public trust in INEC is deeply shaken after several controversial elections in recent years, including the 2023 general elections which were widely criticized for logistical failures and lack of transparency.
With local government elections coming up in several states and preparations beginning for the 2027 general elections, Amupitan’s leadership will be closely watched.
