By Charles Pemu 
ABUJA—The nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received a ringing endorsement from civil society, with the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the choice.
The CSGGG, a major coalition representing over 200 civil society organizations, described the nomination as a “timely and credible step” aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s electoral system in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released by the group, the coalition also extended its praise to the National Council of State for its unanimous approval of Professor Amupitan’s nomination, interpreting the swift endorsement as a reflection of broad national confidence in his professional competence and integrity.
“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the new INEC Chairman,” the CSGGG statement read. “This approval is a testament to the confidence of the Council in Professor Amupitan’s expertise and integrity.”
The group lauded Professor Amupitan as a highly seasoned academic, lawyer, and administrator. They noted that his extensive professional background which includes serving as a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the institution, and Pro-Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, positions him to introduce credibility and reform-minded leadership to the electoral body.
“We believe that Professor Amupitan’s nomination and approval are a welcome development that will strengthen the electoral process in Nigeria. His expertise in law, governance, and electoral processes will be invaluable in guiding INEC’s activities,” the coalition asserted.
Professor Amupitan’s appointment follows the conclusion of the tenure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served from 2015 to October 2025. Amupitan will become the 13th individual to head Nigeria’s electoral body since independence, succeeding a line of electoral chiefs that includes notable names like Eyo Esua, Michael Ani, Attahiru Jega, and Professor Yakubu.
The Civil Society Groups for Good Governance concluded its statement by urging the new nominee to uphold the sacred independence and impartiality of INEC, ensuring that the commission consistently delivers elections that are transparent, free, and fair. The coalition congratulated all Nigerians on the development, expressing strong optimism that the new leadership at INEC would help restore public confidence and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.