The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, on Tuesday swore in Professor Adeniran Tella as a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), with a strong charge to uphold the highest standards of credibility, transparency, and professionalism in the conduct of elections.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Professor Amupitan described the occasion as “a solemn occasion; an occasion of call to duty,” emphasizing that Tella’s new assignment places him at the core of Nigeria’s democratic process.
He reaffirmed his commitment to electoral integrity, declaring: “My mandate is to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections that genuinely reflect the will of the Nigerian people.”
Amupitan warned that INEC would not tolerate any compromise in the electoral process. “Your role as a Resident Electoral Commissioner is absolutely critical. Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated,” he said.
The INEC Chairman urged Tella to strictly adhere to the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, stressing the Commission’s responsibility to maintain an electoral system that is beyond reproach. He cautioned that misconduct, “whether by omission or commission,” would not be condoned.
Amupitan further charged the new REC to build public confidence and resist all forms of electoral malpractices, including vote-buying. “Your primary goal must be to instill in the voters of your state the confidence that their choice truly counts. We are resolved to combat all forms of election rigging,” he stated.
He announced that Professor Tella has been posted back to Oyo State and encouraged him to work closely with INEC staff to address voter apathy and strengthen democratic values. “Go forth and ensure your state is a beacon of hope and democratic values,” he added.
Professor Amupitan congratulated the new REC and offered prayers for his success. “Congratulations, and God bless you, and bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
