From Ndubuisi Orji, Sola Ojo, Jude Idu, Abuja, Emmanuel Adeyemi, Lokoja, Jude Chinedu, Enugu and Noah Ebije, Kaduna

The People Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL), the Obidient Movement and former governorship candidate in Kogi State, Alhaji Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, have charged Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, the newly appointed Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman to restore the confidence of Nigerians in the electoral process.

This is as Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, commended President Tinubu on his appointment.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, Ododo said the appointment was a strong validation of President Tinubu’s commitment to excellence, merit and national inclusiveness in the leadership of the nation’s democratic institutions.

While the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said the party would come UP with a detailed reaction to the appointment, it said it expects the Senate to act in the interest of democracy in considering his nomination.

Reacting, the Obidient Movement, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, expressed the hope that Amupitan’s tenure would mark a significant milestone in the electoral history of Nigeria.

“We look forward to seeing a new Electoral Act that will enhance the credibility, freedom and fairness of our elections, particularly as we approach the 2027 general elections.

“We wish you a successful tenure and pray for God’s guidance and protection as you navigate the challenges of this critical office.”

The Labour Party (LP) described him as a legal luminary with deep respect for the rule of law and therefore, welcomed his appointment.

The National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said the party has followed his professional trajectory and was confident that his tenure would mark a positive turn in Nigeria’s electoral administration.

“We are glad that the era of impunity that characterised the immediate past leadership of INEC has come to an end.

“Professor Amupitan is known for his profound knowledge of the law and respect for judicial pronouncements.

“We believe he will restore the trust Nigerians once had in the electoral umpire.”

Ifoh recalled that the previous INEC leadership had faced several controversies, including near-sanctions from the courts for disobeying lawful orders, which the Labour Party described as a major source of frustration during recent off-season elections.

“The last INEC chairman barely escaped the court’s hammer following his penchant for disobeying valid court orders.

“The Labour Party was one of the major victims of that disobedience, and it cost us dearly,” Ifoh added.

He, however, expressed optimism that the new INEC chairman’s background as a professor, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former pro chancellor, would bring integrity, competence and administrative discipline to the commission.

“Professor Amupitan has gone through years of academic and administrative experiences. We believe he will not allow emotion or political pressure to override the law, as was witnessed in the past.

“Nigerians are eager to see a new era of credible elections and we trust he will deliver,” Ifoh noted.

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) believes his experience in law and academia will help restore public confidence in the nation’s electoral system.

“This pivotal role comes at a crucial time for Nigeria as we move towards strengthening our democratic processes and we are confident that Professor Amupitan’s wealth of experience in academia and legal practice will significantly contribute to enhancing the credibility and integrity of our electoral system.”

CONYL President General, Goodluck Ibem, noted that Amupitan has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to fairness, justice and transparency throughout his career.

“As a distinguished legal scholar and a dedicated administrator, Professor Amupitan has shown unwavering dedication to excellence.

“We believe that his leadership at INEC will set forth new standards of transparency and accountability that our nation so desperately needs,” he added.

The group also presented a five-point agenda aimed at improving Nigeria’s elections. It urged the adoption of technology-driven solutions, such as electronic voting and result transmission to restore faith in the electoral process.

“An informed electorate is crucial for a thriving democracy. We urge your administration to take proactive steps in promoting voter education campaigns that resonate with all demographic groups, especially the youth,” the group stated.

CONYL further called for closer collaboration with civil society organisations, stronger protection for voters against intimidation and violence and continuous reform of electoral laws to reflect changing realities.

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo commended President Tinubu for the appointment.

“Prof. Amupitan’s illustrious career as a renowned legal scholar, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and respected administrator stands as a testament to his capacity for impartiality, integrity and intellectual depth, qualities that are vital to the advancement of our electoral system.

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Kogi State, we assure Mr. President and the entire nation that Prof. Amupitan will uphold the confidence reposed in him and continue to bring honour to the state and to Nigeria through his dedication to credible and transparent elections.

“We heartily congratulate Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, on this well-deserved national assignment and pray for divine wisdom, strength and success as he assumes this critical responsibility.”

Prominent politician and former governorship candidate in Kogi State, Alhaji Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, also hailed Amupitan as “one of the finest and most distinguished minds from Kogi State,” noting that his nomination reflects President Tinubu’s recognition of competence, merit and regional balance in national appointments.

He expressed confidence that the legal scholar would deliver beyond expectations and strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system through fairness, professionalism and experience. (The Sun)