Aware of increasing weaning public confidence in elections, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has outlined clear transparency and reforms agenda to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system, placing electoral reform, infrastructure development and voter education at the centre of his leadership.
Professor Amupitan disclosed these priorities during his maiden interactive meeting with the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, held on Tuesday at the National Assembly, marking his first formal engagement with lawmakers since assuming office.
Addressing the committee, the erudite professor of law described the Senate as a critical pillar in Nigeria’s democratic architecture, noting that constitutional amendments and legislative oversight play a decisive role in shaping credible elections.
He commended the National Assembly for its support during his confirmation and for creating room for INEC’s input in ongoing electoral and constitutional reform processes.
Reflecting on his early days in office, Amupitan cited the Anambra governorship election of 8 November 2025 as a key test for the Commission, noting that the poll was concluded successfully in one day.
He attributed the outcome to effective inter-agency collaboration and said the experience offered important lessons in logistics and operational efficiency.
The INEC boss stressed that the electoral process is guided by the Constitution, the Electoral Act and the Commission’s regulations, adding that reforms must respect constitutional boundaries while embracing technology to enhance transparency, inclusiveness and credibility.
He also identified voter education as a priority, describing informed citizen participation as vital to public trust in elections.
Earlier, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, assured INEC of sustained legislative backing, stressing that credible elections remain the foundation of democratic legitimacy.
He noted that the committee’s oversight role is aimed at strengthening institutions, not interfering with INEC’s constitutional independence.
As preparations begin for the 2026 FCT Area Council and other off-cycle elections, Professor Amupitan emphasised that timely electoral reforms and improved logistics would be crucial to delivering credible polls.
