All Eyes on INEC’s New Chairman as Anambra Governorship Poll Becomes His First Major Test
STORY: WRITTEN BY JOSEPH NOVEMBER 6,2025
Professor Joash Amupitan faces a defining moment on Saturday as he oversees his first major assignment—the off-cycle governorship election in Anambra State. After making strong promises to restore credibility at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the nation awaits proof through action, not words.
Since he assumed office on October 23, 2025, one question has trailed him everywhere: Can he restore public confidence in the electoral process?
Amupitan inherited an INEC whose reputation has been heavily bruised. His predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, left behind an institution repeatedly accused of bias, particularly during off-season polls. Many Nigerians still believe Yakubu failed to deliver credible elections.
Now, Amupitan’s first opportunity to show a new direction comes with the Anambra governorship election holding November 8. This single event may shape his public image for years. For many Nigerians, first impression matters. If the election is transparent and free from manipulation, he will earn widespread applause. But any hint of malpractice may permanently damage public trust in his leadership.
Ironically, the controversies of the past have lowered expectations—making even modest improvements appear like major victories for Amupitan and his team.
Political Temperature Rising Ahead of 2027
While Amupitan prepares for his first electoral battle, politicians across Nigeria are already playing the 2027 game. Endorsements, rallies, and defections have taken over the political space. Governance appears abandoned in many states as political elites chase future power.
Opposition governors are defecting in droves to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), raising questions about political sincerity and accountability. Critics speculate that some are switching parties to seek protection from corruption probes—echoing Adams Oshiomhole’s comment that defectors get their “sins forgiven.”
A striking example is a former North Central governor currently undergoing trial over an alleged ₦80 billion fraud. Despite the case, he freely attends major events, leads chants for re-election campaigns, and moves motions in support of the President and state leaders.
Observers say this is exactly why governance keeps failing in Nigeria—politicians face little accountability, while the public pays the price.
