The National Council of State has unanimously approved the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The approval followed the nomination of Amupitan by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who presented his name to the Council during its meeting in Abuja on Thursday.
Professor Amupitan is to replace Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure ended in October 2025 after serving as INEC Chairman since 2015.
President Tinubu informed the Council that Amupitan is the first nominee from Kogi State, North-Central Nigeria, to be considered for the position. He also described the nominee as apolitical and highly qualified.
Council members unanimously backed the nomination. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State described Amupitan as a man of integrity and a suitable choice for the role.
In line with constitutional provisions, President Tinubu will forward the nomination to the Senate for screening and confirmation.
Professor Amupitan, 58, is from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. He is a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, Plateau State, and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
