Profile of the Honourable Chairman, INEC.

Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, is a distinguished academic, eminent legal practitioner, and thoroughbred administrator. Sworn in on October 23, 2025, he brings to the helm of INEC a formidable background in law, governance, and institutional administration.

Prof. Amupitan’s appointment to lead INEC came at a pivotal time for Nigeria’s democracy. Nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 9, 2025, his confirmation by the Senate on October 16 was followed by a formal swearing-in ceremony at the State House, Abuja, on October 23, 2025. He succeeded Professor Mahmood Yakubu, taking charge of INEC with a clear mandate to uphold the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s elections.

His leadership is defined by an unwavering commitment to transparency, institutional independence, and electoral reforms. His extensive expertise in law and corporate governance is seen as crucial in navigating the complex legal and administrative challenges inherent in managing elections across the diverse Nigerian landscape.

In his inaugural address to the staff of INEC on October 23, 2025, Professor Amupitan declared that the mandate of INEC under him is to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. He stressed his strong commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and discipline in INEC’s operations.

Prof. Amupitan underscored that electoral credibility is a non-negotiable principle, and the integrity of the electoral process must be absolute and above reproach. To achieve this, he urged staff to adhere strictly to guidelines and procedures, emphasizing professionalism and integrity.

Born on April 25, 1967, Prof. Amupitan hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

His journey through the legal profession was marked by consistent academic excellence. He is a proud alumnus of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), where he obtained LL.B. (Hons) in Law (1987). He was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988 after completing his requirements at the Nigerian Law School. He earned his LL.M. (Master of Laws) in 1993 and completed his PhD in Law in 2007, solidifying his status as a distinguished legal scholar.

In recognition of his significant contributions to legal scholarship and practice, he was elevated to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in September 2014.

He was promoted to the rank of Professor of Law in 2008 by his alma mater, the University of Jos, a testament to his dedication to research, mentorship, and teaching. His scholarly work is broad and impactful, resulting in over 50 publications, including several authoritative law textbooks.

His core areas of specialization include Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, Company Law, Corporate Law, Privatization Law and Reforms in Nigeria’s Electoral Jurisprudence.

Beyond the classroom and research, Prof. Amupitan is an adept administrator, holding key leadership positions within the University of Jos and other institutions. He was, until his appointment, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), University of Jos.

He was Dean of the Faculty of Law (2008–2014), Head of the Department of Public Law (2006–2008) and Member of the Governing Council of the University of Jos. He was also the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Osun State, showcasing his leadership beyond public institutions.

He also served as a Member of the Council of Legal Education (2008–2014); Member of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies; and a Board Member of the National Association of Law Teachers. He was also a Fulbright Visiting Scholar at the University of Iowa in 2004. He is married with children.