Barring any last-minute changes, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reportedly set to nominate distinguished legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, as the next Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The anticipated nomination comes just days after Prof. Mahmood Yakubu officially bowed out of office, handing over the reins of the Commission to the most senior National Commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who now serves in an acting capacity as of October 7, 2025.
This transition marks the end of Yakubu’s decade-long leadership at INEC — a tenure that witnessed significant electoral milestones and controversies alike. Now, with Tinubu preparing to unveil his preferred successor, attention has shifted to Prof. Amupitan — a man whose blend of academia, advocacy, and experience could reshape the nation’s electoral landscape.
Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, is not an unfamiliar name within Nigeria’s legal and academic communities. Currently a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, he has built a formidable reputation in constitutional law, governance, and judicial integrity. His deep knowledge of the rule of law and his commitment to transparency have made him a respected figure across both academic and professional circles.
For years, Prof. Amupitan has been at the forefront of discussions on electoral reform, legal accountability, and democratic governance. His writings and public engagements often emphasize the need for institutions like INEC to uphold impartiality and credibility as cornerstones of democracy. These credentials, according to insider reports, are what caught the attention of President Tinubu.
But beyond his professional achievements lies an intriguing personal detail — one that has already begun to stir conversations across political circles.
Prof. Amupitan is known as the longtime lawyer of Senator Dino Melaye, the former Kogi West lawmaker and one of Nigeria’s most outspoken politicians. Their professional relationship reportedly spans over a decade, during which Amupitan represented Melaye in several high-profile legal battles.
This revelation has sparked mixed reactions. While some view it as a testament to Amupitan’s legal prowess and loyalty, others see it as a potentially controversial link given Melaye’s history of fiery political exchanges and shifting alliances.
However, sources within the Presidency suggest that Tinubu’s decision is driven less by political connections and more by a desire to install a credible, reform-minded, and independent-minded technocrat at the helm of INEC. The President is said to admire Amupitan’s calm intellect, strong ethical grounding, and reputation for fairness — qualities viewed as vital for restoring public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process.
If confirmed by the Senate, Prof. Amupitan would be stepping into one of the most scrutinized offices in the country, with responsibilities that extend far beyond election days. His task will include overseeing voter registration reforms, improving election logistics, and driving digital innovations that can enhance transparency and efficiency.
Observers note that INEC is at a defining crossroads. After years of mixed public confidence, the Commission faces growing calls for modernization, accountability, and a stronger commitment to credible results. With Nigeria’s next general elections gradually approaching, Amupitan’s leadership could be pivotal in shaping how voters perceive fairness and integrity in the process.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu — who now holds the position in acting capacity — has promised continuity and stability as the Commission awaits formal presidential action. Her brief stewardship ensures that operations at INEC remain uninterrupted, particularly as preparations continue for upcoming off-cycle elections.
The coming weeks are expected to bring clarity, as the Presidency finalizes consultations ahead of Tinubu’s formal announcement. Political analysts predict that the choice of Prof. Amupitan, if confirmed, could spark a wave of debate — not only about his past affiliations but also about the direction INEC might take under his stewardship.
With Prof. Mahmood Yakubu’s chapter officially closed and Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu temporarily holding the fort, Nigeria stands on the brink of another pivotal shift in its democratic journey.
All eyes are now on President Bola Tinubu as he prepares to make one of the most consequential appointments of his administration — one that could define the future of Nigeria’s electoral credibility,
