By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), on Thursday, October 23, said the eyes of the nation are on the commission to deliver free, fair and credible elections.
Amupitan stated this during his first official meeting with INEC directors shortly after his swearing in at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Thursday.
He pledged to restore credibility and public confidence in the country’s electoral system, noting that the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State is an opportunity for the commission to demonstrate its commitment upholding the highest standards of electoral transparency and accountability, while deepening democratic values across the nation.
“The upcoming Anambra State governorship election is not just another electoral exercise. it represents a pivot opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion.
“Credibility in our election is paramount, and we must ensure that every voter feels confident that their vote will count because that is a constitutional task. And let’s restore back the confidence of every voter that whenever there is an election, their vote will count,” Amupitan said.
The INEC helmsman stressed that the achievement of the commission’s mandate would rest on teamwork, discipline, and integrity within the institution.
He said: “Our mandate is clear, and what is it? To deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. To achieve this, we must work together as a team.
“As we mark the beginning of the new chapter, I want to assure you of my commitment to upholding the highest standard of integrity, transparency, and discipline in all our operations,” he said.
Amupitan also stated that staff welfare is a priority in his agenda, acknowledging that the commission’s workforce plays a vital role in ensuring credible elections and should be equipped with necessary resources to excel.
He said, “For me, staff welfare is going to be my priority. We are going to be expecting so much from you, so your welfare is going to be a priority.
“We’ll work assiduously and tirelessly to ensure that our working conditions are conducive and that our staff are equipped with the necessary resources to excel,”
The INEC chairman assured that despite the weight of his new responsibilities, he was ready for the challenge.
