Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) Named Substantive INEC Chairman — What Nigerians Should Know
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has presented Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new substantive chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The National Council of State has approved the nomination and the next constitutional step is Senate confirmation. 0
Who is Prof. Joash Amupitan?
Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan is a legal scholar and Senior Advocate of Nigeria with a long academic and administrative career; he served in senior roles at the University of Jos and is widely reported as coming from Ayetoro-Gbede in Ijumu LGA of Kogi State. News outlets providing profiles and quick facts about him have run biographical pieces following the announcement. 1
How the appointment unfolded
President Tinubu presented Amupitan’s name to the Council of State after the expiration of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure, and the Council reportedly gave unanimous approval. The President will now formally send the nomination to the Senate for screening and confirmation, as required by the Constitution. 2
Immediate reactions and public expectations
Coverage shows a mix of congratulations from state and civic actors and calls from citizens and stakeholders for the new chairman to rebuild trust in the electoral commission, modernize logistics, and ensure transparent voter registration and credible polls. Analysts are already listing priorities — from strengthening voter roll integrity to improving deployment planning ahead of future elections. 3
What this means for Nigeria’s electoral calendar
A new INEC chair usually signals a transition phase inside the commission. While the appointment itself doesn't change election dates, observers will watch how the new leadership handles ongoing preparations, technology adoption, voter education and relationships with political parties and civil society. Expect early policy statements and a possible roadmap from Prof. Amupitan once confirmation is complete. 4
Quick facts (at a glance)
- Full name: Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN. 5
- Origin: Reported to hail from Ayetoro-Gbede, Ijumu LGA, Kogi State. 6
- Status: Nomination approved by the Council of State; pending Senate screening/confirmation. 7
Why this appointment matters
INEC sits at the centre of Nigeria’s democratic process. Leadership change comes at a sensitive period, and the new chair will be judged on impartiality, competence, and an ability to secure credible outcomes across all tiers of government. The administration, political parties, civil society and international partners will be watching closely. 8
Follow updates on the confirmation process