“INEC Leadership Change: Tinubu Appoints Prof. Joash Amupitan as New Chairman (2025 Update)”

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“Prof. Joash Amupitan, newly appointed INEC Chairman”


By [paul] | Political Desk | October 2025

Pesident Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN as the substantive Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the expiration of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure. His nomination has already been unanimously approved by the National Council of State, paving the way for Senate screening. Channels Television


Background: Who is Prof. Joash Amupitan?

  • Born April 25, 1967, he hails from Aiyetoro-Gbede, Ijumu LGA, Kogi State. Premium Times Nigeria+2Channels Television+2

  • He holds a storied academic and legal career, having joined the University of Jos in 1989, rising to full professorship in 2008. 

  • In 2014, he was conferred the title Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). 

  • His areas of specialization include Company Law, Corporate Governance, Evidence Law, and Privatisation. 

  • Presently, he serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos and holds board roles in multiple institutions. Trending News+1

Appointment Process & Approval

  • With Professor Yakubu’s tenure concluding in October 2025, May Agbamuche-Mbu briefly served as Acting INEC Chair, per internal INEC succession protocols. Wikipedia+2Premium Times Nigeria+2

  • President Tinubu formally presented Prof. Amupitan’s name to the National Council of State, where his nomination received unanimous approval. 

  • The next step is for the President to forward Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation. 

  • Once confirmed, he will be inaugurated and assume the full responsibilities of INEC Chair. Premium Times Nigeria+1


Public & Political Reactions

The appointment has stirred both support and scrutiny:

  • Supporters highlight his academic credentials, legal expertise, and perceived integrity as strengths.

  • Critics and skeptics caution that INEC’s reputation demands not just credentials but absolute impartiality and operational transparency.

  • A resurfaced interview of Amupitan has also drawn attention online, where he made comments interpreted by some to hint at future electoral direction. Daily Post

The public mood is cautious optimism — many Nigerians will be watching closely how he handles upcoming polls and electoral reforms.

Challenges & Responsibilities Ahead

Prof. Amupitan walks into a role fraught with high expectations:

  1. Conducting next elections smoothly — including the upcoming Anambra governorship and FCT area council elections. Premium Times Nigeria+2Premium Times Nigeria+2

  2. Strengthening public trust in INEC, especially as debates over electoral integrity, technology, and bias persist.

  3. Implementing reforms — modernization, transparency, and institutional capacity building will likely be on the agenda.

  4. Managing political pressures — balancing party interests, civil society demands, and internal commission autonomy.

His success or failure will significantly influence how Nigerians view election credibility in the years ahead.



Conclusion

Prof. Joash Amupitan’s appointment as INEC Chairman marks a new chapter for Nigeria’s electoral commission. Backed by the Council of State and awaiting Senate confirmation, he steps into his role with heavy expectations and high stakes. Whether he can steer credible elections, foster trust, and reform the institution will define both his legacy and the country’s democratic trajectory.


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