INEC Intensifies Fight Against Electoral Malpractice
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has made a firm commitment to intensify the commission's efforts against all forms of election rigging. This strong declaration was made on Tuesday in Abuja during the swearing-in ceremony of Prof. Adeniran Tella as a new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC).
A Solemn Call to Uphold Democratic Values
Prof. Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), described the event as a solemn occasion and a direct call to duty for the new REC. He tasked Prof. Tella with the crucial responsibility of upholding the commission's core values, which include transparency, professionalism, and strict adherence to the Electoral Act.
The INEC chairman revealed that his tenure began with a clear mandate to deliver elections that are free, fair, credible, and inclusive, truly reflecting the will of the Nigerian people. He emphasized that the credibility of the electoral system is the essential foundation of Nigeria's democracy.
Non-Negotiable Integrity and a Warning Against Misconduct
Amupitan issued a stern warning, stating that the commission would not tolerate any compromise on established electoral procedures or ethical standards. He was unequivocal in his position that the integrity of elections is non-negotiable.
Any misconduct, whether by omission or commission, shall not be accepted, he insisted. The chairman further charged the new REC to ensure that every action taken meets the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, focusing on transparency and strict compliance with all guidelines.
He highlighted the commission's resolve to combat the menace of vote-buying and other rigging tactics, acknowledging that the public trust placed in INEC is sacred and that the eyes of the nation are upon them.
Prof. Amupitan announced that the newly sworn-in REC, Prof. Adeniran Tella, has been posted to Oyo State and is expected to resume his duties immediately. He urged Tella to collaborate with INEC staff to make the state a beacon of hope and democratic values, noting that restoring credibility is key to addressing voter apathy.
In his response, Prof. Tella expressed his appreciation for the orderly swearing-in process. He commended the commission's current direction, which he described as a total transformation aligned with global best practices. Drawing from his experience, he pledged to uphold professionalism, fairness, and transparency in all electoral operations in Oyo State.
