Barely four days after assuming office, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, has been honoured by the Federal University of Lokoja for his “dedication, hard work, and inspiration to many.”
The recognition came during the 56th Annual National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers (NALT).
According to a statement released by the Commission, the award coincided with Prof. Amupitan’s pledge to work closely with the National Assembly to achieve a “credible, fair, and free” electoral process for Nigeria.
In his address at the event, which he described as a “momentous occasion,” the INEC boss highlighted the importance of law in governance and democracy. “Law is not merely a set of rules but a foundation upon which societies build their progress,” he stated, stressing that credible elections depend on sound legal principles.
Prof. Amupitan also reaffirmed his commitment to participate in the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act. “I will start waiting to participate in the National Assembly to be sure that we have a learning electoral process and laws that you and I and Nigerians should be proud of,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to work toward an electoral system that would eliminate litigation arising from disputes. “Let us not see electoral petitions in court,” he appealed, calling for a process that commands citizens’ confidence.
The plaque presentation by the Federal University of Lokoja was seen as a recognition of his longstanding service in law and public life. Prof. Amupitan ended his speech by urging the academic community to continue supporting efforts that strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
