The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has called on the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), to place national interest above all else as he assumes office.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, the acting National Chairman of the SDP, Dr. Sadiq Gombe, urged Amupitan to translate the widespread optimism surrounding his appointment into meaningful reforms that will restore confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
According to Gombe, the new INEC boss must demonstrate leadership that reinforces public trust and strengthens democracy, especially with the upcoming governorship elections in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun states serving as major tests ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He commended Amupitan’s academic credentials, integrity, and reputation for fairness, describing them as qualities that can reshape INEC’s image and performance. Gombe expressed optimism that Amupitan’s leadership would promote transparency, fairness, and professionalism across the commission.
The SDP leader also urged Amupitan to protect the rights of political parties, remain impartial in handling their internal affairs, and improve the welfare and working conditions of INEC staff to boost institutional efficiency.
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Gombe encouraged the new chairman to adopt innovative technologies and align Nigeria’s electoral practices with international standards to ensure credible, transparent, and inclusive elections.
While acknowledging the efforts of former INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Gombe expressed hope that Amupitan would bring renewed vigor and credibility to Nigeria’s democratic system.
He further appealed to political actors, civil society organizations, and Nigerians at large to support the new INEC chairman in his mission to safeguard the nation’s democracy, assuring that the SDP would continue to uphold democratic values and challenge any act that threatens them.
