The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has outlined key priorities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system, with emphasis on electoral reform, infrastructure development and voter education, during his maiden interactive meeting with the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters.
The meeting, held at Room 107 of the Senate New Wing on
Tuesday, December 16, 2025, marked Professor Amupitan’s first formal engagement
with the Committee since his assumption of office. He was accompanied by the
full complement of National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, and
the Chairman’s technical aides, reflecting the importance INEC attached to the
interaction. Members of the Senate Committee present included the Chairman,
Senator Simon Bako Lalong, as well as Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Tony Nwoye,
Ireti Kingibe, Ede Dafinone, Emma Nwachukwu, Kelvin Chukwu, and Sunday Katum.
In his remarks, Prof. Amupitan acknowledged the Senate
Committee on Electoral Matters as a critical pillar in Nigeria’s democratic
architecture, noting that its legislative and oversight responsibilities
directly impact the stability and credibility of the nation’s electoral system.
He expressed appreciation to the Senate for the rigorous confirmation process
that preceded his appointment, describing the engagement as a demonstration of
institutional collaboration anchored on constitutional principles.
Reflecting on the early days of his tenure, the INEC
Chairman recalled that the Commission was immediately confronted with the
conduct of the Anambra Governorship Election of November 8, 2025. He reported
that the election was successfully concluded in a single day, a notable
departure from previous experiences, and attributed the outcome to effective
inter-agency cooperation and the support of the National Assembly and other
stakeholders. According to him, the exercise provided valuable lessons and insights
into areas requiring further improvement, particularly in logistics and
operational efficiency.
Prof. Amupitan emphasised that Nigeria’s electoral system
operates within a tripartite framework comprising the Constitution, the
Electoral Act, and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines. While the Commission is
empowered to conduct elections and issue regulations, he stressed that these
responsibilities must remain consistent with the provisions of the Constitution
and the laws enacted by the National Assembly. He commended the legislature for
granting INEC the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing process of
constitutional and electoral amendments.
Outlining his vision for the Commission, the INEC Chairman
stated that supporting the National Assembly in achieving meaningful electoral
reforms remains a core priority of his leadership. He further emphasised the
need to strengthen existing infrastructure and deploy technology in a manner
that enhances transparency, credibility, and inclusiveness in the electoral
process. He acknowledged the challenges associated with public perception and
expectations, emphasising the importance of adhering to constitutionalism, due
process, and institutional boundaries in the conduct of elections.
The INEC chairman also identified voter education as a
critical mandate that will receive increased attention under his leadership,
noting that informed participation by citizens is essential to the integrity
and credibility of elections. He emphasised the central role of logistics in
electoral success and observed that preparations for forthcoming elections,
including the FCT Area Council Election and other off-cycle elections scheduled
for 2026, are closely linked to the timely conclusion of electoral reforms by
the National Assembly.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Senate Committee
on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, welcomed Prof. Amupitan and
his delegation, describing the interactive session as a significant milestone
in efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He reaffirmed the
central role of INEC in shaping public confidence in governance and stressed
that credible elections remain fundamental to democratic legitimacy.
Senator Lalong congratulated the INEC Chairman on his
appointment and noted that he assumed office at a time of heightened public
expectations and evolving challenges, including technological innovation, voter
education, electoral security, logistics, and public trust. He assured the
Commission of the Committee’s readiness to provide legislative support,
constructive oversight, and policy guidance to enable INEC to effectively
discharge its constitutional mandate.
He emphasised that the interactive session was designed to
promote frank dialogue and institutional collaboration rather than ceremonial
engagement. While reaffirming the Committee’s commitment to electoral reforms
through legislation and budgetary support, Senator Lalong stressed that
oversight does not amount to interference, noting that respect for INEC’s
constitutional independence remains a guiding principle.
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