Middle Belt Forum Applauds Appointment Of Prof. Joash Amupitan As INEC Chairman

By; ISAAC ODEH, Kaduna

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has welcomed the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing him as a man of integrity, intellect, and proven competence.

In a statement signed by its National Spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it called a “well-considered and merit-based choice.”

The forum also commended the Council of State for endorsing the nomination, describing it as a positive step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Professor Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Professor of Law at the University of Jos, hails from Kogi State in the Middle Belt region.

The MBF said he is “eminently qualified” for the position, noting his decades of service in academia, where he mentored generations of lawyers and contributed significantly to the development of constitutional and electoral law in Nigeria.

“The Middle Belt Forum believes that Professor Amupitan’s appointment presents a rare opportunity to rebuild the integrity of INEC and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process,” the statement said.

It noted that the immediate past leadership of the Commission left behind a legacy “marred by electoral irregularities and widespread distrust,” stressing the urgent need for reform and transparency.

The forum urged the incoming INEC chairman to ensure that elections at all levels — from the presidency to state assemblies — truly reflect the will of the people. It also expressed confidence that, true to the Middle Belt’s tradition, Amupitan would discharge his duties with fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God.

Calling on the Senate to swiftly screen and confirm the nominee, the MBF said Professor Amupitan’s assumption of office would mark a new chapter in the quest to deepen electoral integrity and democratic governance in Nigeria.

“The Middle Belt Forum once again congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) and thanks President Tinubu for recognizing merit, character, and competence in this appointment,” the statement concluded.