INEC Boss Charges New REC to Restore Public Trust in Elections

INEC Boss Charges New REC to Restore Public Trust in Elections

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), on Tuesday charged the newly sworn-in Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Professor Adeniran Tella, to uphold uncompromising standards of integrity and transparency in the conduct of elections, saying the Commission’s commitment to credible polls remains “a moral and legal duty.”

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held in Abuja, Amupitan described the event as “a solemn occasion; an occasion of call to duty,” noting that the mandate before the new REC places him “at the forefront of Nigeria’s democratic journey in one of our states.”

The INEC Chairman said his own tenure began with a clear mission to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections that genuinely reflect the will of the Nigerian people, insisting that Nigeria’s democratic stability depends heavily on the integrity of its electoral system.

According to him, “The credibility of our electoral system is the very foundation upon which our democracy stands. Your role as a Resident Electoral Commissioner is absolutely critical to the success of this democratic project. I must be unequivocal, the integrity of our elections is non-negotiable.”

Amupitan cautioned the new REC against any action capable of undermining public confidence, stressing that compromise of any kind would not be tolerated.

“I charge you to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in every action you take. Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated,” he warned.

He further urged Tella to ensure strict compliance with the Commission’s guidelines and the Electoral Act, describing transparency as the foundation of electoral credibility.

“Any misconduct, whether by omission or commission, shall not be accepted,” he said.

Charging the new commissioner to work closely with INEC staff, he urged him to make his state “a beacon of hope and democratic values,” noting that credible elections are central to addressing voter apathy and other systemic challenges.

Amupitan concluded by announcing Tella’s deployment to Oyo State, urging him to continue giving his best.

“Go forth, Professor Tella. Let us stand united to restore and uphold the integrity and credibility of our elections. Congratulations, and God bless you,” he said.