Abuja, Nigeria: The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has congratulated Prof. Joash Amupitan on his appointment as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), calling on him to build on existing reforms and restore public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.
IPAC National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, in a statement on Friday in Abuja, described the appointment as a well-deserved appointment in the citizens’ quest for sustainable democracy and development.
Dantalle said that as a man of integrity, distinguished academic, astute administrator and legal luminary, the nation hoped Amupitan would bring his wealth of experience in discharging the critical national assignment.
He said that under Amupitan, Nigerians expected an independent electoral body and electoral reform that would consolidate, deepen and strengthen the democratic system.
“Also free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections that will foster national unity, political stability and prosperity.
Elections and reforms aimed at rebuilding trust in the electoral process and upholding the sanctity of the ballot box, where every vote is counted and contributes to the overall result, ensuring the mandate of the people is respected by all stakeholders.
These aligned with the vision and mandate of IPAC in deepening our democracy, ensuring an environment conducive to successful elections, political stability, and the overall well-being of Nigerians.
He noted that as the umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, IPAC will collaborate with the new leadership of INEC and critical stakeholders to enhance the credibility and integrity of the nation’s electoral process and strengthen democratic institutions and governance.
He charged Amupitan to discharge his constitutional responsibilities without fear or favour and justify the confidences Nigerians reposed in him, bearing in mind that the whole world is watching him, saying to whom much is given, much is expected.
“The litmus test of his leadership is the Nov. 8, Anambra governorship election.
“INEC should remain neutral as an umpire and ensure it is fair, transparent and inclusive.
“The success of this off-cycle election will indicate what citizens will expect in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory Area Council polls, Osun and Ekiti gubernatorial elections, and the decisive 2027 general election.
“The need for patriotism, excellence, transparency, integrity, security and accountability cannot be overstated,” Dantalle said.
He pledged IPAC’s Council decision to stand with INEC, stakeholders, and fellow compatriots in building a strong, united, stable, prosperous, and inclusive democratic nation.
