We Won’t Rig Elections for Politicians, New INEC Chairman Amupitan Tells Staff
The newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that under his leadership, the commission will not compromise the integrity of the electoral process or rig elections for any politician.
Amupitan gave the assurance during a maiden address to INEC staff at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday, where he urged employees to uphold professionalism, transparency, and neutrality in the discharge of their duties.
He stressed that his administration’s top priority is to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that truly reflect the will of the people.
“We cannot and will not rig elections for any politician. Our duty is to serve Nigerians by ensuring that every vote counts,” Amupitan declared. “INEC must remain independent and above political pressure. That is the only way we can sustain public confidence in our democracy.”
The new INEC boss also appealed to staff to show commitment, integrity, and discipline in their work, warning that any form of compromise or collusion with political actors would not be tolerated.
He noted that the credibility of elections largely depends on the conduct of INEC personnel at all levels, adding that Nigerians are watching and expect nothing less than fairness and transparency from the commission.
Amupitan, who recently assumed office following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu, emphasized his readiness to build on the reforms initiated by his predecessors and to strengthen electoral technology, logistics, and voter education ahead of future elections.
“Our collective responsibility is to protect the sanctity of the ballot. We must remember that we are working for Nigeria, not for any political party,” he added.
The new chairman’s remarks come amid growing public demand for electoral reforms and increased calls for INEC to ensure greater accountability and efficiency in the nation’s democratic process.
