Anambra Election Test For INEC Credibility Says Amupitan

The new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, says the upcoming Anambra governorship election will serve as the first major test of his leadership’s commitment to credible elections in Nigeria.

He stated this on Thursday during his inaugural address to INEC staff at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, shortly after being received by the outgoing acting Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu.

Amupitan, who officially assumed office this week, described his appointment as a call to duty and pledged to uphold integrity, transparency, and discipline in all INEC operations. He said his administration would work closely with staff to build a stronger, more accountable institution capable of delivering elections that truly reflect the people’s will.

He noted that the November Anambra governorship election would be a defining moment for the commission, as Nigerians expect a transparent and credible process. According to him, the poll offers INEC a chance to rebuild public confidence and prove its readiness to conduct elections free from manipulation and bias.

“The Anambra election is not just another electoral exercise,” Amupitan said. “It is an opportunity to show Nigerians that we can deliver free and fair elections where every voter believes their vote counts.”

He urged staff to work as a team, stressing that the success of any election depends on the synergy among departments and cooperation with political actors and citizens. He called for unity, professionalism, and strict adherence to INEC’s constitutional mandate.

Amupitan also appealed to political stakeholders and the public to support the commission’s efforts, noting that credible elections can only be achieved through collective responsibility.

In her remarks, the outgoing acting Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu, assured Amupitan of the full cooperation of national commissioners and staff. She said the new chairman was taking over a solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure brought major innovations such as the BVAS technology and the IReV results viewing portal.

She noted that while expectations are high, the commission under Amupitan has the experience and framework to strengthen public trust and advance Nigeria’s democratic process.