The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will rely on its pre-existing operational framework to conduct the Anambra State governorship election, despite the recent appointment of Professor Joash Amupitan as chairman. This was confirmed by Kimpact Development Initiative, a civic group monitoring electoral processes.
Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of Kimpact, explained that the timing of Amupitan’s appointment makes it impossible for him to implement major reforms before the election:
“The only thing he can do now is basically administrative. In the real sense of elections, it’s already late.” — Punch The Punch
The group emphasized that contracts for ballot printing and logistics had already been finalized before Amupitan assumed office, meaning the election will reflect the systems and decisions of the previous INEC leadership.
Meanwhile, TheCable described the election as a “litmus test” for Amupitan’s credibility, noting that public expectations are high and political competition in Anambra is traditionally intense TheCable.
Intersociety, a rights group, echoed similar concerns, stating that the leadership transition presents an opportunity to rebuild trust in Nigeria’s electoral process:
“The appointment of a new INEC leadership offers a chance to rebuild trust and ensure a more credible and participatory process.” — Daily Post Daily Post Nigeria
Despite the constraints, Amupitan has pledged to deliver a free and fair election. INEC has also accredited 76 media organizations to cover the polls, with over 500 journalists expected to report from the field Vanguard.
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