The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has told the Nigerian Senate to non-partisan screening of President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Joash Amupitan.
PDP said the Senate’s screening process must reflect the wishes of Nigerians who desire a transparent, credible and truly independent from the electoral body.
The National Council of State on Thursday approved the appointment of Amupitan as the new INEC chairman. President Tinubu presented had nominated Amupitan to the Council, following the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served as chairman from 2015 to October 2025.
But the PDP national publicity secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, charged the Senate to “do its job” in the interest of democracy and national stability.
Ologunagba, at a press conference, said Nigerians expect the Senate to approach the screening with patriotism and courage.
“Having regards to the records of INEC in the past, we hope we can turn the corner to ensure that we have a democratic process that is free, fair, credible, and that Nigerians can believe in. So that’s our expectation.
“That’s setting the stage for the Senate in particular, which is the first state. And secondly, for the nominee to recognize, when it’s confirmed, if it’s found worthy by the Senate.”
He added that the international and democratic community are watching Nigeria’s next electoral transition closely.
The PDP spokesperson emphasized that the Senate must serve as “the last line of defence for democracy.”
