The nominee for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission b, Professor Joash Amupitan, has vowed to make the Commission truly independent and transparent if confirmed by the Nigerian Senate.
During his screening session before the Senate Committee on Thursday afternoon, Amupitan, a respected legal scholar and constitutional expert, outlined his vision for restoring public trust in the electoral process by ensuring that INEC operates without political, financial, or institutional interference.
Amupitan outlines roadmap for INEC’s true independence
Speaking before the lawmakers, Professor Amupitan identified financial dependence and weak institutional autonomy as the major factors undermining INEC’s credibility over the years.
He explained that the Commission’s reliance on executive approval for funding and key decisions often compromises its neutrality, adding that he would leverage constitutional provisions to secure financial autonomy and operational independence for INEC.
“For INEC to be respected and trusted by Nigerians, it must be seen as completely independent — not just in words, but in practice,” Amupitan stated. “If confirmed, my first task will be to strengthen the legal and administrative framework that guarantees the Commission’s autonomy.”
He emphasized that a truly independent electoral body must have the authority to make its own decisions without external influence, whether from the executive or political actors. According to him, ensuring autonomy will be key to restoring citizens’ faith in the electoral process.
Commitment to transparency, accountability, and technology
Professor Amupitan assured the Senate that he would promote transparency, accountability, and modern technology in managing Nigeria’s elections. He promised to build on the digital reforms introduced in previous electoral cycles while improving logistics, real-time result transmission, and voter education.
He said: “My goal is to make INEC an institution Nigerians can rely on — one that operates with fairness, openness, and efficiency. Every vote must count, and every citizen must trust that their choice matters.”
Amupitan also pledged to collaborate with civil society organizations, youth groups, and the media to enhance civic engagement and voter awareness, particularly among first-time voters and marginalized communities.
Senators commend Amupitan’s reform plans
Several lawmakers commended his vision, describing it as “bold and necessary” for safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy. They urged him to implement electoral reforms that would prevent manipulation and ensure credible polls.
In response, Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and strengthening institutional integrity. He also noted that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when the electoral umpire operates with complete neutrality and professional excellence.
“The credibility of elections determines the strength of our democracy,” he said. “If INEC is independent, transparent, and accountable, then the will of the people will always prevail.”
He concluded by assuring Nigerians that, under his leadership, INEC will focus on building systems that protect electoral integrity, guarantee fairness, and inspire long-term confidence in democratic governance.
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[blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Professor Joash Amupitan, the nominee for INEC Chairman, has pledged to ensure that under his leadership, INEC will maintain its independence. pic.twitter.com/AosoSzWR2H
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) October 16, 2025