President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to unveil his preferred nominee for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before the National Council of State today at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The presentation comes just weeks before the expiration of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure as INEC Chairman, which officially ends next month.
Professor Yakubu, who has led the electoral body through two general elections since 2015, handed over the affairs of the commission to the most senior National Commissioner, Dame May Agbamuche Mbu, on October 7, 2025, in an acting capacity. Presidency insiders revealed that arrangements have been concluded for the Council to preview and advise on the nominee before final confirmation.
Among the shortlisted candidates, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan from Kogi State is said to be the frontrunner. A presidential source disclosed that Amupitan “came highly recommended” and has already passed through a thorough security screening. The law professor, who currently serves as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos, has built a strong reputation in corporate governance and public law.
Born on April 25, 1967, in Aiyetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Amupitan specializes in Evidence, Corporate Governance, Corporate Law, and Privatization Law. His nomination is seen by many observers as an effort to strengthen public confidence in INEC’s leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Section 153(1) and the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the appointment of an INEC chairman must be made in consultation with the Council of State. However, some political observers have criticized earlier appointments of National and Resident Electoral Commissioners, saying they were made without proper consultation.
A senior presidency aide said, “The President wants a credible process, and he wants to ensure that Nigerians’ trust in INEC remains intact.” Despite speculation of possible delays, sources insist President Tinubu is determined to complete the process quickly to avoid any leadership gap in the commission.
