President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed the reasons behind his decision to appoint Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the selection was guided by Amupitan’s nonpartisan character, integrity, and distinguished record in public service.
The President described the new appointee as a man with an unimpeachable reputation, adding that Amupitan is the first person from Kogi State to be nominated for the INEC top job.
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday during a meeting of the National Council of State at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where members of the council unanimously endorsed the nomination.
Council members, including current and former leaders, commended the President’s choice, describing Professor Amupitan as a person of “proven integrity and sound judgment.” Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, also hailed the appointment, saying the nominee’s career reflects “a deep commitment to justice, scholarship, and national service.”
With the council’s endorsement, Tinubu is expected to forward Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation in line with constitutional requirements.
Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, 58, hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. He is a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, Plateau State, where he currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration). He also chairs the Governing Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Osun State.
