The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Speaking on behalf of the party, Secretary General Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday described the appointment as a bold step toward restoring credibility to Nigeria’s electoral system. He acknowledged the controversies that often surround INEC leadership appointments but expressed optimism that Amupitan’s tenure could mark a turning point.
“Professor Amupitan must hit the ground running,” Oginni stated. “His first task is to rebuild public trust in INEC by confronting systemic corruption and reversing the damage done to the commission’s image.”
Oginni urged Amupitan to thoroughly assess the commission, address unresolved issues ignored by his predecessor, and advise the President on necessary personnel changes to ensure institutional integrity.
Reflecting on NNPP’s own experiences, Oginni criticized the previous INEC leadership for disregarding court orders related to the party’s internal leadership and for allegedly altering the party’s logo and colors without proper authorization.
“It was shocking and shameful that INEC ignored valid court rulings and collaborated with expelled members to change our party’s identity,” he said. “Such actions undermine constitutional democracy and erode public confidence.”
He emphasized that Amupitan has a choice: to follow the path of past chairmen or to distinguish himself by upholding the rule of law and internal party democracy.
“The NNPP shall join Me President and good people of Nigeria to give the new leadership maximum support and pray that he is not distracted in carrying out his duties,” Oginni concluded.