President Bola Tinubu has urged new INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan to ensure transparency and fairness ahead of the 2027 polls.
He said credible elections are vital to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
President Bola Tinubu has urged the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to uphold transparency, credibility, and non-violence as Nigeria moves toward the 2027 general elections.
The President gave the charge on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja after administering the oath of office on Amupitan, whose appointment was confirmed by the Senate last week. He said the choice of the new electoral chief reflected confidence in his capacity and character from both the executive and legislative arms of government.
Tinubu advised Amupitan to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s elections and strengthen INEC’s institutional independence. He also reminded him that his first major test would be the November 2025 governorship election in Anambra State.
According to the President, democracy in Nigeria has progressed through steady reforms and lessons from past experiences since 1999. He said the country must continue to build on that foundation by ensuring that its electoral system remains fair, credible, and transparent.
“Our democratic journey has been long and demanding. What we have achieved so far must not be taken for granted,” Tinubu said. “For our democracy to thrive, we must safeguard the credibility of our elections through transparency and fairness in every stage of the process from registration to campaigns, voting, and collation.”
He added that although no system is perfect, maintaining honesty and openness throughout the electoral process would deepen public confidence and strengthen the country’s democratic institutions. Tinubu stressed that elections must remain a genuine reflection of the people’s will and serve as a channel through which citizens decide their leaders and future.
The President further called on the INEC chairman to promote peace, inclusiveness, and transparency in all electoral activities.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Professor Amupitan pledged to uphold the Constitution and ensure that future elections meet the expectations of Nigerians.
He said his administration at INEC would work closely with political parties, civil society groups, and security agencies to guarantee credible outcomes. “I have taken my oath to serve with integrity and fairness,” he said. “Our focus will be on conducting elections that are free, credible, and acceptable to all stakeholders.”
