The Senate has confirmed the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination.

Professor Amupitan’s confirmation came after a two-hour screening session at the National Assembly, during which he responded to wide-ranging questions from senators on electoral reforms, institutional transparency, and his vision for strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.

President Tinubu had earlier transmitted a formal request to the Senate, seeking legislative approval for Amupitan’s appointment in accordance with constitutional provisions. The nomination had also received the endorsement of the National Council of State during its recent meeting chaired by the President.

Amupitan, a Professor of Law at the University of Jos and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, hails from Kogi State. He has previously served in various academic and administrative capacities and is widely respected for his legal scholarship and contributions to public policy.

His confirmation marks the end of the tenure of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who completed his second five-year term, while May Agbamuche-Mbu had been overseeing the commission in an acting capacity before the Senate’s approval of Amupitan’s appointment.

Political observers have described the confirmation as a significant step toward ensuring continuity, institutional reform, and credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.