The African Democratic Congress has responded cautiously to the nomination of Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, urging him to place the interests of Nigerian citizens above political considerations.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said it was “willing to give him the benefit of doubt” based on his academic and professional credentials, but warned that the task ahead is monumental and history will ultimately judge his performance.
The ADC stated that Nigerians expect Professor Amupitan to bring credibility, courage, and fairness to the electoral process, describing his appointment as a defining moment for both the commission and the country’s democracy.
“We expect the new INEC Chairman to have a personal ambition to do better and restore the confidence of Nigerians and the world in Nigerian elections,” Abdullahi stated.
He emphasized that the new INEC chairman must recognize that his primary loyalty lies with Nigerian citizens rather than the government, and should be guided by a commitment to the nation’s democratic principles.
“He must understand that his loyalty is with the Nigerian people, not the government,” Abdullahi stressed.
While pledging to evaluate him based on his actions, the ADC reminded Professor Amupitan that his tenure would likely extend beyond a single electoral cycle, urging him to look beyond the interests of those who appointed him.
“He now has the opportunity to make a good name for himself that his children would be proud of, or to soil his record and end up with ignominy,” Abdullahi warned.
The statement further emphasized that Amupitan’s legacy would be determined by his success in rebuilding public trust in the electoral umpire, particularly following recent criticisms of election conduct and management under his predecessor.
“He should bear in mind also that his tenure will ordinarily last beyond one electoral cycle. He should therefore look beyond the interest of those who have appointed him,” the ADC spokesperson added.
The party’s statement reflects broader concerns among opposition parties and civil society groups about the independence and credibility of Nigeria’s electoral commission, especially as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Professor Amupitan’s nomination, which was unanimously approved by the National Council of State on Thursday, now awaits Senate screening and confirmation before he can assume office as the 15th chairman of INEC.
