As the tenure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), draws to a close, speculation is rife about who will succeed him at the helm of Nigeria’s election management body. An exclusive report by Sahara Reporters on September 26, 2025, suggests that Professor Joash Amupitan, a prominent academic and legal scholar, is emerging as the frontrunner for the position.
End of an Era at INEC
Professor Yakubu, who assumed office in November 2015, is serving out his second and final term as permitted by law. Over the past decade, he has presided over two general elections—in 2019 and 2023—alongside multiple off-cycle governorship contests, bye-elections, and supplementary polls.
Yakubu’s leadership has been marked by both innovations and controversies. He oversaw the introduction of new technologies such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), aimed at strengthening transparency in the electoral process. However, his tenure has also attracted criticism from political actors and civil society groups who raised concerns about logistical challenges, delayed result transmission, and allegations of electoral malpractice.
With his exit expected before the end of 2025, attention has shifted to who will take up the mantle of leading Nigeria’s most sensitive democratic institution.
Who Is Joash Amupitan?
Professor Joash Amupitan is a distinguished academic and lawyer with a reputation for integrity, scholarship, and commitment to the rule of law. A professor of law at the University of Jos, he has held several leadership roles in academia and the legal profession. Amupitan is widely regarded for his expertise in constitutional law, governance, and electoral reforms, qualities that observers say make him a strong candidate for the INEC top job.
Colleagues describe him as a “bridge-builder” with a deep understanding of Nigeria’s complex political landscape. If appointed, Amupitan will face the immediate challenge of consolidating the gains of his predecessor while addressing lingering gaps in credibility and voter confidence.
The Road Ahead
Although reports point to Amupitan as the likely successor, the Federal Government has not issued any official statement confirming his appointment. Under Nigeria’s constitution, the President nominates the INEC Chairman, subject to confirmation by the Senate.
Stakeholders in the electoral process, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the international community, are closely watching the succession process, mindful of the role INEC plays in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
For whoever emerges as Yakubu’s successor, the task will be enormous: strengthening electoral integrity, restoring public trust, and preparing the Commission for the 2027 general elections.
As Nigeria awaits official word from the Presidency, one thing is clear—the next INEC Chairman will have to navigate both political pressures and the growing demand for credible, transparent elections in Africa’s largest democracy.