Council Of State Approves Amupitan As New INEC Chairman
Abuja — The Council of State has approved the appointment of Professor Sani Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the expiration of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure.
The decision was reached on Thursday during a meeting presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The session, attended by former heads of state, serving governors, and other top government officials, deliberated extensively on the need to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to a statement issued after the meeting, Professor Amupitan’s appointment was ratified after a thorough review of his credentials and recommendations by the National Council on Political Affairs. The Council described him as a “seasoned administrator and legal scholar” with vast experience in governance, electoral policy, and constitutional law.
Professor Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Jos, has served as a consultant to several electoral reform committees and has contributed to the development of policies aimed at improving Nigeria’s democratic processes.
Speaking after the meeting, President Tinubu expressed confidence in Amupitan’s ability to build on the gains of his predecessor, noting that the incoming INEC leadership must focus on restoring public confidence in the electoral system, improving transparency, and ensuring credible elections at all levels.
“Professor Amupitan’s wealth of experience and commitment to integrity make him a fitting choice for this crucial national role,” the President said. “Our democracy must continue to evolve, and INEC must be at the forefront of that transformation.”
The outgoing INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who assumed office in 2015 and oversaw two general elections, was commended by the Council for his service and contributions to electoral development in Nigeria.
Professor Amupitan is expected to assume office once his appointment is confirmed by the Senate. His immediate tasks will include addressing logistical challenges faced during previous elections, deepening the use of technology in voting and result transmission, and strengthening internal reforms within the commission.
Political observers have welcomed the appointment, describing it as a step toward ensuring continuity and reform within Nigeria’s electoral framework, especially as political parties begin preparations for the 2027 polls
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