By SARAH BULUS
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, Nigeria’s political landscape is buzzing with debate over the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The recent confirmation of the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as INEC Chairman by the Senate on Thursday, October 16, has sparked a mixture of optimism, skepticism and cautious hope across the country. The pressing question remains: Can Nigerians trust Amupitan to deliver free, fair and transparent elections in a context where public confidence in INEC is fragile?
Of hope, skepticism
Professor Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Dean of Law at the University of Jos, is widely respected for his knowledge of constitutional and electoral law. Many Nigerians believe his academic and professional background makes him well-suited to lead INEC into a new era. They cite his integrity and legal expertise as critical assets for steering reforms that could strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
Yet, competence alone does not guarantee electoral credibility. Success requires resilience—the courage to resist political pressures, the determination to uphold the law and the ability to defend INEC’s independence. “It is not about whether Professor Amupitan can perform well, but whether he will, and that can only be proven through the crucible of actual governance,” says Sylvester Udemezue of the Council of Legal Education.
Voices from Plateau State reflect both hope and caution. Mr. Sunday Bunu said, “For me, the new INEC Chairman is okay, but if he can work on the card reader problem I will be happy.” Meanwhile, Mrs. Esther Daniel added, “I hope all the wahala we experienced before will not repeat itself, like underage people voting or double voting.”
Despite this optimism, some citizens remain skeptical, pointing out that political interference, logistical failures and weak legal structures have historically undermined electoral integrity. Past INEC chairmen, from Professor Attahiru Jega’s praised 2015 transition to Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure, illustrate both technological innovation and public distrust.
Technology, transparency, reform
The use of technology has become central to Nigeria’s elections. After the controversies surrounding the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal in 2023, Nigerians expect Amupitan to restore confidence in electoral technology. Innovations like the BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System) and online result transmission must be functional, transparent and secure.
Local voices emphasise practical solutions. A Jos resident, Mr. Innocent Bitrus, says, “There should be alternatives for transparency, especially in remote areas with poor power supply. Extra batteries and generators should be provided by INEC in case of power failure.”
Miss Hannatu Ashoms adds, “Sending results from polling units requires internet connectivity; the government should ensure even villages are connected.”
However, experts stress that technology alone cannot save elections. “It must be backed by integrity, transparency, and a genuine commitment to accountability,” says Dr. Grace Eze, a political analyst in Abuja. Citizens are calling for reforms such as a review of the Electoral Act, transparent party primaries and stricter enforcement of campaign finance regulations.
Independence, public confidence
Perhaps the most significant challenge is INEC’s independence. Critics worry about Amupitan’s perceived closeness to the current administration and caution that such ties could compromise neutrality. Civil society groups, however, including the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) and Yiaga Africa, welcome his appointment, describing him as a reform-minded scholar who understands the legal framework of elections.
On the whole, from grassroots to civil society, Nigerians are watching closely. They expect transparency in INEC operations, improved voter education and measures to curb vote-buying and electoral violence. Rebuilding public confidence in the commission is critical—confidence that has eroded after years of disputed elections and delayed justice.
Professor Amupitan’s tenure presents both opportunity and challenge. He inherits an institution in need of reform, a citizenry craving trust and a democracy that requires protection. Ultimately, the credibility of Nigeria’s 2027 elections will depend not only on technology or policy but on leadership, integrity and courage—the ability to stand firmly for the people’s mandate. Nigerians are waiting to see if Professor Amupitan can truly deliver a vote of confidence.