By Peterside Rejoice
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has written to the Senate, seeking the confirmation of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The letter, which was read during Tuesday’s plenary by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, requested the upper legislative chamber to give urgent consideration to the nomination in line with constitutional provisions.
According to the President, the appointment of Professor Amupitan follows the expiration of the tenure of the former INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose term ended recently after serving two consecutive terms.
Tinubu stated that the nomination was made in accordance with Sections 153(1)(f) and 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empower the President to appoint the Chairman and National Commissioners of INEC, subject to Senate confirmation.
He urged the lawmakers to expedite the screening and confirmation process to ensure the electoral body continues to function effectively ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Professor Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Jos, hails from Kogi State. He is widely regarded as an expert in constitutional and administrative law, with decades of experience in academia and public service.
If confirmed, Amupitan will replace Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who has been serving in acting capacity since the exit of Yakubu.
The letter was referred the letter to the senate committee on Electoral Matters for further legislative action
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