Category: Featured

• Council of State endorses Tinubu’s pick
• Name to be forwarded for Senate confirmation

Support swelled yesterday for the nomination of Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Eminent Nigerians, activists, and political groups gave high ratings to his choice.

The name of the professor of Law at the University of Jos was presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Council of State—the nation’s highest advisory body—for endorsement.

The presidential action is in line with Section 154 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

With the Council’s approval, the President will now forward his name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

If confirmed, Amupitan will become the third professor in succession to head the electoral body.

In presenting the nomination, President Tinubu described Amupitan as “a man of impeccable character who will run INEC fairly.”

The Council meeting—the second under the Tinubu Administration—was attended by only two of the living former leaders: former Military President Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), both of whom participated virtually.

Also in attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, governors, and other statutory members.

Four former Chief Justices of Nigeria—Alfa Belgore, Mahmud Mohammed, Walter Onnoghen, and Olukayode Ariwoola—were also present.

Amupitan, 58, hails from Aiyetoro Gbede, in the Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, who briefed reporters after the session, hailed the nomination, describing Amupitan as “a man of character, transparency, and integrity.”

His Kogi State counterpart, Usman Ododo, also commended the Council, saying the nominee is “a man of integrity and sound judgment.”

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang said Amupitan would live up to expectations and urged the Senate to confirm him.

In a statement by his media aide, Gyang Bere, Mutfwang described Amupitan as “a towering figure, a patriotic Nigerian, a strategic thinker, and a detribalised leader whose immense contributions have shaped the course of good governance and democratic advancement across the country.”

He expressed appreciation to the President for finding Amupitan worthy of the national assignment and for honouring the Northcentral region with such an important appointment.

The governor said with divine guidance and the wealth of experience Amupitan brings to the table, he would “undoubtedly deliver on the mandate entrusted to him with integrity and excellence.”

He described the nominee as “a distinguished academic, a repository of knowledge, and a moral compass,” adding that his enduring commitment to scholarship, democracy, and the rule of law had left “an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political evolution.”

Mutfwang added that through his scholarly works, public lectures, and civic engagements, Amupitan had demonstrated a steadfast belief in unity, inclusion, and accountable leadership.

At the University of Jos, where the nominee studied and lectured, colleagues paid glowing tributes to his character and work ethic.

Prof. Taye Obateru, of the Department of Mass Communication, said: “I have known Prof. Amupitan for 20 years—since my days as a journalist before joining the university. He has always been humble and unassuming.

“People often say that when others get into new offices, they change, but not with this man. Even as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, he has not changed the way he relates with people.

“He is successful both in private and public life. His wife, now an Associate Professor, and his well-brought-up children speak volumes about his values. Despite his achievements, he remains down-to-earth and approachable.”

Read Also: Adeyanju commends Tinubu on appointment of new INEC chairman

Dr. Rabiatu Abdullahi Musa, Head of the Department of Public Law, said: “I have known Prof. Amupitan for about 30 years—since my undergraduate days. His wife was my classmate, and we were also together at the Nigerian Law School. He is a good father, a good husband, and a disciplined professional who cares deeply for others.

“To the best of my knowledge, Prof. Amupitan has never faced any disciplinary panel in the university. He is too disciplined and too committed to his job to even earn a query. He is a devout Christian and one of the most dependable colleagues anyone could have.”

Activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju commended the President for the nomination, saying it reflected a recognition of competence and inclusiveness.

He noted that Amupitan is the first indigene from Kogi State’s minority Ijumu community to be appointed to the position.

Adeyanju added: “I must admit that I had expected the President to appoint someone from his immediate circle, but this decision comes as a pleasant surprise.”

He lauded President Tinubu for making a merit-based appointment and expressed optimism that Amupitan would bring integrity, professionalism, and reform-driven leadership to INEC.

Obi’s supporters hail appointment

Supporters of former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also welcomed the appointment.

The Obidient Movement, in a statement by its National Coordinator Yunusa Tanko and Director of Strategic Communications Nana Kazaure, extended warm felicitations to Amupitan.

They said: “As we reflect on the experiences of past INEC chairmen, we are hopeful that your tenure will mark a significant milestone in Nigeria’s electoral history.

“We look forward to a new electoral act that will enhance the credibility, freedom, and fairness of our elections, particularly as we approach the 2027 general elections.

“We wish you a successful tenure and pray for God’s guidance and protection as you navigate the challenges of this critical office.”

Senator Sunday Karimi (Kogi West) also praised the nomination, saying: “President Tinubu chose one of Nigeria’s finest scholars, most rigorous legal inquisitors, experienced administrators, and non-partisan patriots.

“I feel personally gratified that the President has looked in the direction of my senatorial district for the appointment of an intellectual of astounding repute, a man of distinction and integrity.”

He added that Amupitan is “a pan-Nigerian to the core” who, though from Kogi West, “has lived most of his life in Plateau State—from his first day in the university through his doctorate—before pursuing an illustrious career over the past four decades.”

Karimi also noted that Amupitan’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posting to Bauchi State in the North-East makes him “a thoroughbred Arewa son.”

Lawyers: He faces huge challenges

Former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL), Dr. Monday Ubani, said: “By his qualification, he is suitable and acceptable. However, the taste of the pudding is in the eating.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. I don’t envy him; he has a lot to correct and accomplish in ensuring a credible electoral process akin to that of 1993. I wish him luck.”

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Wahab Shittu, said: “I wish the new INEC helmsman well in the discharge of the responsibilities of that high office which require integrity, competence, capacity and character to fulfil.”

Also, legal practitioner Dr. Adewale Kupoluyi described the nomination as “promising and a good sign for Nigeria’s electoral process.”

He said: “In terms of credentials—as a Professor of Law, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and a man with several years of public service—the appointment is commendable.

“The new INEC Chairman must, however, ensure that the electoral umpire remains truly independent, apolitical, and operationally effective.”

Group: Amupitan will restore public confidence in electoral system

The Northern Ethnic Nationalities Forum (NENF) expressed confidence that Amupitan’s appointment would restore public trust in the electoral process.

In a statement by its Chairman, Dr. Dominic Alancha, the group described the nomination as “a significant step toward strengthening democratic institutions.”

It said: “We believe he will steer the Commission with independence, transparency, and excellence at a time when our democracy requires bold, ethical, and visionary leadership.

“This appointment demonstrates the administration’s commitment to electoral reform, national unity, and competent leadership.

“We are especially proud that this reflects the Federal Government’s recognition of the deep pool of talent and integrity that exists within the Northcentral.

“Prof. Amupitan stands as a shining example of the excellence our region contributes to national development.

“As stakeholders in the democratic project, we call on all Nigerians—regardless of region, ethnicity, or political affiliation—to support Prof. Amupitan as he embarks on this crucial national assignment.”

Mixed reactions trail nomination

While several groups and leaders have praised President Tinubu for appointing what they describe as a man of integrity and intellect, others urged caution, insisting that the new INEC helmsman must demonstrate independence and rebuild public confidence in the electoral system.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) cautioned the nominee to remain loyal to Nigerians rather than the ruling party. The party’s leadership said his performance would ultimately be judged by his ability to deliver free, fair and credible elections.

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) said rebuilding public trust in INEC must be Amupitan’s immediate priority.

It noted that issues such as the 2023 election glitches, delayed result uploads and declining voter confidence had eroded the commission’s credibility, urging the incoming chairman to address these shortcomings decisively.

Some civil society organisations also expressed reservations, warning against any perception of partisanship.

They urged the President to ensure that Amupitan’s background and prior affiliations would not compromise INEC’s neutrality.

Despite the mixed views, many commentators agree that Amupitan’s credentials are impressive.