NGO Hails Amupitan’s Appointment As INEC Chair

The Intercontinental Leadership Initiative (ILI) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Council of State for the unanimous approval and nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The Lead Trustee of the Initiative, Prince Stafford Bisong, stated this in a statement on Friday where he described Amupitan’s appointment as a landmark decision that reflects the administration’s commitment to credible leadership, inclusivity, and integrity in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Prince Bisong further commended President Tinubu for his exemplary leadership and wisdom in presenting a candidate with impeccable academic and professional credentials to lead Nigeria’s electoral body.

He noted that Amupitan’s nomination represents not only regional balance but also a firm step towards deepening electoral reforms and strengthening public confidence in the nation’s democratic institutions.

According to the statement, the decision of the National Council of State to unanimously endorse the President’s choice demonstrates collective patriotism and a shared vision for a stronger and more transparent electoral system.

Bisong stated that Amupitan’s vast experience as a distinguished scholar, legal luminary, and administrator will bring intellectual depth and moral discipline to the management of Nigeria’s elections.

He further stated that the new INEC Chairman’s long-standing record of excellence in academia and public service, coupled with his apolitical stance, gives the nation renewed hope for fair and transparent elections.

“The Intercontinental Leadership Initiative believes that this appointment will reposition INEC as a globally respected electoral institution capable of delivering credible, technology-driven, and inclusive elections that truly reflect the will of the people,” the statement added.

Bisong also called on the National Assembly to, without delay, confirm the appointment once the nomination is formally communicated to it, in recognition of the Law professor’s competence, character and capacity to strengthen the nation’s electoral system.

He assured the federal government of ILI’s full support in promoting civic engagement, voter education and leadership ethics across all levels of governance in line with the organisation’s vision to strengthen democratic institutions and leadership integrity in Africa.

He called on all Nigerians to rally behind Amupitan by giving him the cooperation needed to succeed in his new role.