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By Sola Rotimi
The nominee for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan has dismissed reports linking him to the legal team of the ruling party during the last presidential election, saying he neither represented the government nor the opposition in any of the election petitions.
Appearing before the Senate for screening on Wednesday, Amupitan emphasized the need for clear policies, regulations, and enabling laws from the National Assembly to enhance the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
“I was not part of the presidential election tribunal or the Supreme Court cases,” he clarified. “I have obtained certified copies to show that I did not appear in those matters.”
He pledged to strengthen the independence of the Commission and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process, if confirmed by the Senate.
Responding to a question raised by the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Mohammed Monguno, on the conduct of local government elections, the nominee noted that the issue has been widely debated among stakeholders. He said many Nigerians believe the responsibility should be transferred from the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) to INEC, following concerns about the credibility of state-managed polls.
However, he warned that such a move would require careful review, considering the logistical and infrastructural challenges that would come with conducting elections in all 774 local government areas of the country.
“While the idea has merit, we must also look at whether INEC has the capacity to manage local government elections in addition to its national assignments,” he said.
On voter apathy, Amupitan said the Commission would place greater emphasis on voter education, describing it as essential to building patriotism and civic responsibility. He proposed the introduction of voter education modules that could be accessed in different local languages through the mobile phone, as well as training programmes to strengthen civic awareness.
“We will even think of introducing voter education at the primary school level so that patriotism and participation can become part of the individual’s upbringing,” he said.
Addressing questions on INEC’s independence, the nominee described it as a “delicate issue,” but assured the lawmakers that the Constitution provides sufficient guarantees for the Commission’s autonomy.
“INEC must be independent, and we will leverage that constitutional framework to ensure we perform our responsibilities without interference,” he stated.
Amupitan added that the forthcoming election would serve as what he described as a test case for the Commission’s renewed commitment to credible elections that could help rebuild citizens’ trust in the democratic process.
A vote of thanks was delivered by the Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Mr. Sunday Karimi, who spoke on behalf of the Senate and the nominee.
Karimi expressed confidence that Amupitan, being the first INEC nominee from the North Central region, would, if confirmed, lead the Commission with professionalism, fairness and integrity.
