By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The National Council of State has approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the next Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The decision was reached during the Council’s meeting held Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and chaired by President Tinubu. The endorsement clears the way for the President to forward Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.
Professor Amupitan, a respected academic and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, hails from Aiyetoro-Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. He is a Professor of Law at the University of Jos and has served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the same institution. He was also a former Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University.
He is set to replace Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose 10-year tenure as INEC Chairman comes to an end this month. Pending Senate confirmation, May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner, will continue to act as INEC Chair.
Political observers have described Amupitan’s nomination as a strategic choice, citing his legal expertise and non-partisan reputation. His appointment also marks the first time a Kogi-born academic will head the nation’s electoral body.
Meanwhile, analysts say his leadership will be tested by the task of restoring public confidence in the electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Stay tuned to NationalWatch TV for more updates on this developing story.
