Kogi Government Commends President Tinubu for Appointing Prof. Amupitan as INEC Chairman

The Kogi State Government has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for appointing Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, a distinguished indigene of the state, as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement released on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described the appointment as a strong affirmation of the President’s commitment to meritocracy, excellence, and national inclusiveness in the leadership of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“Prof. Amupitan’s distinguished career as a legal scholar, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and respected administrator highlights his integrity, impartiality, and deep intellectual capacity—qualities essential for strengthening our electoral system,” Fanwo stated.

He further assured Nigerians that the people and government of Kogi State are confident Prof. Amupitan will justify the trust placed in him and continue to bring honour to both the state and the nation through his dedication to credible and transparent electoral processes.

“We warmly congratulate Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, on this well-deserved appointment and pray for divine wisdom, strength, and success as he takes on this vital national responsibility,” the statement concluded.

Earlier, NIERIA NEWS 247  reported that Prof. Amupitan was presented to the Council of State on Thursday as the first nominee from the North Central region to lead INEC, following the conclusion of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s two-term tenure from 2015 to October 2025.

The nomination received unanimous support from Council members, with Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, describing Prof. Amupitan as a man of integrity.

In accordance with constitutional procedures, President Tinubu is expected to forward Prof. Amupitan’s nomination to the Senate for confirmation.

Prof. Amupitan, 58, hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. He is a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, where he also earned his degrees. His areas of expertise include Company Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law. He was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in September 2014.