In another development, the National Council of State has endorsed the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the next Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the conclusion of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure.
The announcement was made in a press statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, he noted that President Bola Tinubu presented Amupitan to the Council, describing him as a political and the first nominee from Kogi State for the role.
According to reports, Council members gave unanimous support, with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo commending Amupitan’s integrity. The President is expected to forward the nomination to the Senate for confirmation in line with constitutional requirements.
Born in 1967 in Ayetoro Gbede, Kogi State, Amupitan is a Professor of Law and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos. He holds an Master of Laws and Doctor of Philosophy from the same institution and became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2014.
He is also a Pro-Chancellor, legal author, and has held board positions in several organisations. Until Senate confirmation, May Agbamuche-Mbu, the longest-serving INEC National Commissioner, will serve as Acting Chairman.