Professor Joash Amupitan, nominee for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has vowed to restore integrity and public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Speaking during his screening before the Senate Committee of the Whole on Thursday, Amupitan said his vision was to make Nigeria’s elections so transparent that “the loser will congratulate the winner.”
He outlined a comprehensive reform plan that includes establishing an internal ethics committee, introducing a whistleblower policy, enforcing accountability within the commission, and deploying advanced technology — including drones — to improve election logistics and security.
Responding to lawmakers’ concerns about corruption, credibility, and logistics, Amupitan said that if confirmed, his leadership would be anchored on trust, transparency, and ethical conduct.
“This position is built on trust, and my people must understand that they hold their offices on trust as well,” he said.
“We will establish an ethical committee to review past reports and ensure that every complaint is pursued to conclusion.”
Amupitan also disclosed plans to collaborate with the National Assembly on the establishment of the proposed Electoral Offences Commission, which would investigate and prosecute election-related crimes.
“We will work with the National Assembly to ensure legislative backing for the Electoral Offences Commission. Even if it requires forensic investigation, we will pursue it. We will also introduce a whistleblowing policy to expose malpractice,” he said.
On election security, Amupitan pledged to adopt innovative measures to ensure that no eligible voter is disenfranchised, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
“Security remains a major challenge. We will strengthen collaboration with security agencies and improve logistics — even if it means using drones. No voter will be left behind; that will be our policy,” he stated.
He further underscored the importance of voter and civic education in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, promising to build the capacity of electoral stakeholders and launch intensive civic enlightenment campaigns.
Addressing the issue of real-time transmission of results, Amupitan said the matter required legislative clarity, adding that he would contribute his expertise to strengthen the Electoral Act.
“The Electoral Act needs further work. I will make my input to address the issue of electronic and real-time transmission of results,” he said.
He also pledged to streamline election timelines and procedures to eliminate ambiguities and ensure credibility.
“We will make the process clear and transparent so that elections are credible and the loser can congratulate the winner,” he assured.
On financial accountability, the INEC chairmanship nominee promised to uphold strict transparency in managing the commission’s funds.
“There are adequate laws on procurement and public finance. We will enforce them to ensure funds are used properly — and saved where possible,” Amupitan added.
