The Senate on Thursday, October 16, 2025, confirmed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
His confirmation followed a screening session conducted in the Senate Chamber during the Committee of the Whole.
During the exercise, lawmakers grilled the nominee on a range of issues relating to electoral integrity and his past political involvement. One of the most pointed questions came from Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), who asked whether Amupitan played any role in the 2023 presidential election tribunal.
Responding, Amupitan firmly denied any involvement in the tribunal or subsequent Supreme Court appeals, stressing that he had “no connection whatsoever” with the proceedings. He also pledged to safeguard the independence of the electoral body, assuring lawmakers that INEC under his leadership would be impartial, transparent, and accountable.
After the screening, the nominee was allowed to “take a bow and go,” pending the formal decision of the chamber.
Upon his exit, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) moved a motion to restore all floor privileges earlier suspended for the screening, which was seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) and approved by voice vote.
When the motion for confirmation was put to vote, the Senate unanimously endorsed Amupitan’s appointment.
“The nomination of Joash Ojo Amupitan for appointment as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission is hereby confirmed,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared.
Earlier, Amupitan arrived at the National Assembly complex in the company of Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo and other dignitaries. He was ushered into the chamber at about 12:50 p.m. by the Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Abubakar Lado.
Before the session began, Akpabio informed lawmakers that Amupitan had been thoroughly vetted and cleared by the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Office of the Inspector-General of Police, which confirmed he had no criminal record.
Akpabio also welcomed the nominee’s family and well-wishers, commending their support and presence at the Red Chamber.
With the Senate’s approval, Professor Amupitan officially becomes the new INEC Chairman, pending formal inauguration by the President.
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