Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, SAN, has said he accepted the responsibility of leading Nigeria’s electoral body after what he described as a divine conviction that God would strengthen and sustain him in the role.
Amupitan spoke in Abuja at an end-of-tenure and appreciation service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention in honour of its outgoing president, Israel Akanji, and his wife Victoria.
Amupitan said he would not have accepted the position without a strong inner assurance.
He stated that his decision to take up the appointment was anchored on a clear spiritual message, adding that it gave him the courage to step into the demanding office.
According to him, he drew strength from what he believed was a message from God, which reassured him not to fear or be discouraged, but to trust in divine help and support throughout his tenure.
He stressed that the conviction had continued to guide him in office despite the challenges associated with managing elections in a complex democratic environment, adding that he had relied on faith to navigate difficulties.
He expressed confidence that no challenge was insurmountable, insisting that divine backing has remained central to his leadership approach since assuming office.
The INEC boss also called on Nigerians to pray for the commission and for the success of the 2027 general elections, expressing optimism that the upcoming polls could set a new standard for electoral processes in the country.
He emphasised that “achieving such a milestone will require collective support”, adding that while “I cannot accomplish the task alone, I remain confident that success is possible with divine assistance.”
Amupitan also used the opportunity to reflect on public service, warning that individuals should not take up responsibilities without a clear sense of direction, insisting that purposeful calling is essential for effective leadership.
He further said assignments should only be undertaken when there was a clear sense of divine direction, adding that such conviction remained key to his experience as INEC chairman.
