Yiaga also noted that even though Amupitan is qualified for the job, he will need for than that to succeed.
By Kehinde Okeowo
A non-profit organization, Yiaga Africa, has said Nigerians will be able to assess the newly appointed Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN) after the upcoming off-cycle elections.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the organization’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, while featuring as a guest on a programme on Arise TV.
TheNiche had earlier reported that the National Council of State approved the nomination of Professor Amupitan as the new Chairman of INEC on Thursday.
The Kogi State-born academician filled the vacancy created by the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served from 2015 until October 2025.
Speaking on the change of baton at the electoral body, Itodo said the new INEC chairman has his work cut out with some governorship elections coming close.
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He added that even though Amupitan possesses the needed professional qualifications for the job, he will need more than that to succeed.
He went on to say his success or otherwise may depend on the team he will work with.
Speaking during the interview, Itodo said, “I think that when you look at his pedigree, he has all the professional qualifications based on what we have been told and also someone who was my teacher back then in the university.
“Yes he’s got his accomplishment and pedigree but when you look at INEC as an institution, you require more than that. You require individuals who have the courage to withstand political pressure.
“At the end of the day if he’s cleared by the Senate, the team he will work with is critical because INEC has a lot of personnel ranging from Electoral Officers to Resident Commissioners.
“I think he’s got his work cut out for him with the FCT election and some governorship elections coming close.”
