Development expert and economic analyst, Dr. Taufiq Raimi, has urged Professor Josiah Ojo Amupitan, the newly nominated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to focus on restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system by protecting his integrity, closing institutional gaps, and building strong stakeholder collaboration.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE News on Friday, Dr. Raimi described Professor Amupitan as “a relatively unknown figure” to many Nigerians but one with an “impeccable résumé and strong leadership qualities.”
According to him, “The new INEC chairman that has been nominated, which will undergo screening by the relevant agencies and the National Assembly, is relatively unknown to many, as it has been argued. However, his impeccable résumé shows that he has gained a lot of leadership quality during his career. A 58-year-old professor of law from Kogi State, I think he is well-equipped if he should focus on the task ahead.”
Dr. Raimi outlined his expectations for Amupitan, urging him to build on existing reforms while learning from the failures of his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, particularly the “technical glitch” controversy that marred the 2023 presidential election.
He said, “The new INEC chairman should look at the progress his predecessor recorded while in office so that he can learn lessons from it. He should also look at the gaps. The former INEC chairman introduced several technological innovations into the system, but the 2023 technical glitch is a gap he must now address and prevent from reoccurring.”
Raimi also cautioned Amupitan to guard his reputation against political interference, stressing that integrity and focus would be his greatest assets. “He must not allow politicians to tarnish the image he has built up over the years. This is very possible if he remains focused,” he stated.
He further advised the INEC nominee to prioritise collaboration with stakeholders to rebuild trust in the electoral process. “He must work with stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians’ expectations are met through credible electoral activity. I would also suggest that he pursue necessary amendments to strengthen the quality of our electoral system and deliver free, fair, and credible elections.”
Calling for national support, Raimi said Amupitan’s success would depend on collective responsibility and institutional cooperation. “By engaging with security agencies, civil society organisations, and political parties, I believe we should give him the privilege and support he requires to succeed,” he concluded.
Boluwatife Enome
Follow us on:
