President Bola Tinubu says he nominated Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) to lead the Independent National Electoral Commission because of his non-partisan profile, strong integrity record, and years of public service.

Speaking at the National Council of State meeting at the State House, Abuja, the President noted that Amupitan, who hails from Kogi, would be the first nominee from the state to head the electoral body.

Council members, including serving and former leaders, backed the choice. Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo praised the nominee’s “deep commitment to justice, knowledge, and national service.”

What happens next

With the Council’s endorsement secured, the presidency will forward Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation, as required by the constitution. He is set to replace Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, whose 10-year tenure ended this week.

Who is Prof. Joash Amupitan?

Amupitan, 58, is a Professor of Law from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu LGA, Kogi State. He teaches at the University of Jos, where he serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration). He is also Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Osun State.

Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988 and elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2014, Amupitan has written widely on company law, corporate governance, and evidence. His published works include Corporate Governance: Models and Principles (2008), Documentary Evidence in Nigeria (2008), Evidence Law: Theory and Practice in Nigeria (2013), and Principles of Company Law (2013).

Beyond academia, he has served on several boards, among them Integrated Dairies Limited (Vom), the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, the Council of Legal Education, and Riss Oil Limited (1996–2004). He is married with four children.