The Nigerian Senate has commenced the screening of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan for appointment as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier on Tuesday transmitted the nominee’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.
Before the session began, the Senate suspended its relevant rules to allow the entry of Prof. Amupitan and members of his entourage into the chamber.
Those present included the Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, Mrs. Amupitan, and the couple’s three children — Barrister Favour Amupitan, Marvelous Amupitan, and Beloved Amupitan.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio welcomed the nominee, jokingly advising him to feel comfortable during the screening.
“You may sit down or ask for water at any time. We don’t want any incident here,” Akpabio quipped. “Our hospital is not ready yet.”
In his brief remarks, Prof. Amupitan highlighted the three guiding principles that have shaped his life — God, hard work, and mentorship. He also noted that he is the first Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Kogi State, a feat he described as a divine privilege.
Further deliberations on his confirmation are expected to continue in the coming days.
Details shortly…
