The Senate, on Thursday, commenced the screening of the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission Professor Joash Amupitan, at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.
Amupitan, a Professor of Law from the University of Jos, arrived at the Red Chamber around noon in the company of Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, and other dignitaries.
He was ushered into the Senate chamber at about 12:50 p.m. by the Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Abubakar Lado.
Welcoming the nominee, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Amupitan’s credentials and acknowledged the presence of his family and supporters.
“The task before the next INEC Chairman is enormous. Nigerians are looking forward to an electoral body that will further strengthen democracy through credible and transparent elections,” Akpabio stated during his opening remarks.
The screening exercise, which began around 12:55 p.m., focused on Amupitan’s vision for electoral reforms, deployment of technology in elections, and measures to ensure institutional independence within the commission.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier nominated Amupitan to succeed Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who recently resigned as INEC Chairman. The President’s letter of nomination was read by Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary session.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Jos, Amupitan is widely respected for his expertise in constitutional and international law.
During the session, some lawmakers pressed the nominee on his plans to restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Responding, Amupitan said, “INEC must be seen as an institution that serves the people, not political interests. My focus will be on strengthening internal systems, ensuring staff integrity, and embracing technology that enhances credibility.”
He added that if confirmed, his administration would prioritize continuous voter education, prompt election result transmission, and improved collaboration with civil society groups.
Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail Amupitan’s nomination, with some civil society organizations urging the Senate to ensure a transparent confirmation process.
Should the Senate confirm him, Amupitan will oversee upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.
