INEC to Intensify Crackdown on Election Rigging, Vote-Buying – Amupitan

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to clamp down firmly on election rigging and vote-buying ahead of future polls.

Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, gave the assurance in Abuja during the swearing-in ceremony of Prof. Adeniran Tella as a new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC).

Describing the event as a solemn responsibility and a call to service, the INEC chairman urged Tella to uphold the Commission’s core principles of transparency, professionalism and strict compliance with the Electoral Act. He noted that the task before INEC remains critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.

According to him, his mandate as chairman is anchored on delivering free, fair, credible and inclusive elections that reflect the choice of Nigerians. He warned that the Commission would not condone any breach of electoral procedures or ethical guidelines, stressing that the integrity of elections is non-negotiable.

> “The credibility of our electoral system is the very foundation of our democracy,” Amupitan said. “Your role as REC is central to this national expectation. Any compromise on our standards, processes or values will not be tolerated.”

He added that INEC has both a legal and moral obligation to ensure a transparent electoral process, vowing to tackle all forms of malpractice, especially vote-buying. He emphasized that public trust in INEC remains sacred.

Prof. Tella has been deployed to Oyo State and is expected to assume duties immediately.

In his response, Tella expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him and commended the Commission’s transformation efforts. He pledged to conduct his duties with fairness, professionalism and transparency, drawing from years of experience in public administration and electoral management.