The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, has called on staff of the commission to demonstrate stronger commitment to professionalism, integrity, and selfless service as Muslims across Nigeria celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
In a goodwill message marking the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, Amupitan congratulated Muslim employees of the commission, describing the festival as a period for deep reflection on obedience, sacrifice, and devotion to duty.
He said the values of the celebration closely mirror the demands of election management in Nigeria, stressing that the responsibility of safeguarding democracy requires discipline and unwavering dedication.
“As the Muslim Ummah celebrates this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, I extend my warmest felicitations to all our Muslim colleagues within the Commission,” he stated.
According to him, the festival represents “timeless virtues of obedience, selflessness and supreme sacrifice,” which public officers must internalize in their daily responsibilities.
Amupitan noted that election administration is a demanding national assignment that often requires long working hours and personal sacrifice.
“The institutional assignment committed to our care by the Nigerian people requires an unmatched level of personal sacrifice and steadfastness,” he said, adding that staff often work “away from family and comfort zones.”
He drew a parallel between the spiritual lesson of Eid and the ethical demands placed on electoral officials, urging staff to remain guided by constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act.
“Just as the patriarch Abraham demonstrated unflinching obedience to a higher call, we too must remain resolutely compliant with the constitutional guardrails, the Electoral Act, and our codes of conduct,” he said.
The INEC chairman also disclosed that the commission is currently at a critical operational stage following recent field assessments in Ekiti State ahead of upcoming off-cycle governorship elections, as well as preparations for the 2027 general elections.
He explained that this phase demands precision, discipline, and strict adherence to procedures to ensure credible electoral outcomes.
“Compliance, precision, and surgical execution are non-negotiable standards as we work to eliminate logistical friction and secure the trust of the electorate,” he added.
Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, assuring that the commission’s leadership would continue to improve working conditions, security, and institutional support for personnel.
He further encouraged staff to use the festive period to renew their sense of duty and commitment to national service.
“Let us re-consecrate our hands to the service of our nation,” he urged, calling for an electoral body that remains “fiercely independent and beyond reproach.”
The message concluded with goodwill wishes for a peaceful celebration, as he extended blessings to staff and Nigerians at large.
