PRESS RELEASE
The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has congratulated Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) on his nomination and unanimous approval by the National Council of State as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing the development as another opportunity to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the CNPP, Comrade James Ezema, the umbrella body of registered political parties and political associations in Nigeria commended the President and the Council of State for the choice of a seasoned legal scholar and administrator with a track record of professionalism and integrity.
The CNPP urged Professor Amupitan to remain a man of honour and good report, noting that public expectations are high and that his performance in office will be judged by his commitment to impartiality, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law.
“Professor Amupitan must remember that Nigerians are yearning for a credible electoral process that reflects the true will of the people,” the CNPP said. “We urge him to ensure that he leaves the office of INEC Chairman with his integrity intact and his reputation untainted, by serving the nation with courage, fairness, and sincerity of purpose.”
The statement emphasized that the forthcoming Anambra State Governorship Election in November will be a test case and an opportunity to redeem the image of INEC as an impartial electoral umpire. According to the CNPP, how INEC conducts that election will set the tone for public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The Anambra election will be the first major poll under Professor Amupitan’s leadership,” the statement continued. “It will provide him and the Commission the chance to demonstrate a new commitment to credibility and efficiency in the management of elections. The entire nation will be watching to see if INEC can truly rise above political pressures and logistical failures that have undermined past elections.”
The CNPP further called on civil society organizations, the media, and ordinary citizens to take active interest in all electoral processes, stressing that democracy can only thrive when the people maintain vigilance and defend their right to choose their leaders.
“We urge Nigerians to remain eternally vigilant, participate actively in the electoral process, and be ready to protect their votes in all elections beginning from the forthcoming Anambra State Governorship Election,” Comrade Ezema said. “Democracy is not sustained by institutions alone but by the collective resolve of citizens to demand accountability and transparency.”
The CNPP reaffirmed its commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote electoral integrity, peaceful participation, and the rule of law in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Our democracy will only endure when institutions like INEC earn the people’s trust,” the statement concluded. “We believe Professor Amupitan has the opportunity to make history by restoring faith in the ballot, ensuring that every vote counts, and leaving behind a legacy of honour.”
Signed:
Comrade James Ezema
Deputy National Publicity Secretary
CNPP
October 9, 2025