The nominee for Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has pledged to reinforce the independence of the Commission and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process if confirmed by the National Assembly.
Appearing before lawmakers, Amupitan stressed that while the Constitution grants electoral institutions substantial autonomy, many are either unaware of the full extent of their powers or unable to fully exercise them due to operational constraints.
He urged a thorough interpretation of both the spirit and the letter of the law to ensure genuine institutional independence.
Citing his experience in electoral administration, he noted persistent delays in the release of election funds, despite legal provisions mandating that such funds be made available at least one year before general polls.
He described the continued reliance on the envelope budgeting system as a major setback affecting the Commission’s preparedness and overall efficiency.
"The timely release of funds is crucial. When budgets are delayed or restricted, it undercuts the Commission’s ability to plan and execute credible elections," he said.
Amupitan further underscored the importance of clearly defining authority and power within the electoral system to avoid undue interference and institutional weakness.
He called on the National Assembly to exercise its oversight responsibility to guarantee that INEC operates with full transparency, adequate resources, and unrestricted freedom, ensuring that future elections reflect the true will of the Nigerian people.
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