The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reacted cautiously to the appointment of Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging him to demonstrate independence and integrity in his new role.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the new INEC boss will restore public confidence in the country’s electoral process.
“He must understand that his loyalty is to the Nigerian people, not the government,” the statement said.
“We are willing to give him the benefit of doubt based on his track record, but now he 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.”
The party added that Professor Amupitan’s performance will determine whether Nigeria can rebuild trust in its electoral system following widespread criticism of past polls.
“The new chairman should also remember that his tenure will likely last beyond one electoral cycle. He should, therefore, look beyond the interest of those who appointed him,” Abdullahi added.
The ADC said it expects Amupitan to bring transparency, professionalism, and fairness to the electoral body, noting that the credibility of future elections depends heavily on his leadership.