The nominee for Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission Joash Amupitan has assured that, if confirmed, he will work to strengthen the independence of the Commission and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
He noted that while the Constitution grants electoral institutions a degree of autonomy, many remain unaware or unable to fully exercise it, stressing the need to examine both the spirit and the letter of the law to ensure genuine independence.
Drawing from past experience, the nominee observed that although the law provides for the release of election funds at least one year before the polls, this is often not implemented as scheduled.
According to him, delays in funding, coupled with the continued use of the envelope budgeting system, have continued to limit the efficiency and independence of key electoral institutions.
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He further emphasized that the issue of authority and power within the electoral system must be properly addressed.
The nominee therefore urged the National Assembly to use its oversight powers to guarantee that INEC operates freely, transparently, and with adequate resources to deliver credible elections in the country.
(Editor: Ena Agbanoma)
