The Senate on Thursday commenced the screening of Professor Joash Amupitan, President Tinubu’s nominee for INEC Chairman, after he was cleared by security agencies.
The Senate on Thursday began the screening and confirmation of Professor Joash Amupitan, President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Amupitan, a Professor of Law from the University of Jos and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, arrived at the National Assembly complex earlier in the day and exchanged pleasantries with lawmakers before the session began. He was accompanied by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo and other dignitaries.
At about 12:50 p.m., the nominee was ushered into the Senate chamber by the Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Abubakar Lado.
The motion to admit him was moved by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio welcomed Amupitan and disclosed that he had been cleared by the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and the Inspector-General of Police, confirming he had no criminal record.
The screening, which began at 12:55 p.m., is expected to focus on Amupitan’s plans for electoral reform, the use of technology, and ensuring credible elections.
If confirmed, he will succeed Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and oversee preparations for the 2027 general elections.