… Says ‘Eyes of the nation are upon us’ as he assumes office in Abuja
BY CAROLINE AMEH
ABUJA – The newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, on Thursday assumed duty at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja with a firm declaration that election integrity under his leadership would not be compromised.
Describing his appointment as a “divine call to service,” Amupitan pledged to uphold transparency, fairness, and credibility in the conduct of elections across the country.
Amupitan was earlier sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, before formally taking over from Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who had been serving as Acting Chairman following the exit of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
Addressing INEC directors shortly after assuming office, the new chairman expressed gratitude to God, saying his appointment was part of a divine plan to contribute to national transformation.
“I am here for a purpose. Maybe if I had a choice, I would have said no. But from all indications, God is moving this country, and my coming here is divine. With God saying go, who am I to say no? I am here to play my part in birthing a new Nigeria,” he said.
He reiterated that the credibility of elections was non-negotiable, stressing that every Nigerian voter must trust that their vote counts.
“Our mandate is clear – to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the people,” he stated.
Amupitan, who was accompanied by his wife, children, and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, pledged to prioritize staff welfare and professional development, noting that collective effort and accountability would define his administration.
“Staff welfare will be a priority. We will expect a lot from you, but you will also be well supported and equipped to perform. We will make sure your work environment and resources enable excellence,” he assured.
The INEC boss identified the forthcoming Anambra governorship election as a major test for the Commission’s preparedness and commitment to credible polls.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us. We must rise to the occasion and show that we can deliver elections that meet the expectations of Nigerians,” he declared.
Amupitan commended Agbamuche-Mbu for her leadership during the transition period and thanked INEC staff for their dedication, urging them to work in unity and uphold democratic values through credible elections.
