President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
Here are key facts to know about him:
- First INEC Chairman from Kogi State
Professor Amupitan’s appointment makes him the first person from Kogi State to head Nigeria’s election management body. He hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area. - A Distinguished Legal Scholar
He is currently the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos, where he has spent over three decades in teaching, research, and administration. - Over 30 Years in Academia
Amupitan joined the University of Jos in 1989 as an Assistant Lecturer, became a Reader in 2003, and was promoted to Professor of Law in 2008. - Educated Entirely at the University of Jos
He obtained his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees in Law from the University of Jos, showcasing a lifelong affiliation with the institution. - Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988
After completing his legal training at the Nigerian Law School, Lagos, he was called to the Bar in 1988. - Areas of Expertise
His professional and academic interests include Law of Evidence, Corporate Law, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law. - Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)
Professor Amupitan attained the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2014, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the legal profession. - Experienced University Administrator
He has served as Dean of the Faculty of Law, Head of the Department of Public Law, and Chairman of the Committee of Deans and Directors at the University of Jos. - National and Institutional Service
Amupitan has represented the University on key national bodies, including the Council of Legal Education and the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) Governing Council. - Pro-Chancellor Before His Appointment
Before his nomination as INEC Chairman, he was the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Osun State. - Published Author and Researcher
The legal scholar has over 50 academic publications, focusing on corporate governance, electoral law reform, and petroleum industry legislation.
He has also supervised several Master’s and PhD students in law. - Professional Memberships
He is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), and the National Association of Law Teachers (NALT). - Private Sector Experience
Beyond academics, Amupitan has served on corporate boards such as Integrated Dairies Limited, Riss Oil Limited, and the NIALS Governing Council. - Family Life
He is married to Dr. (Mrs.) Yemisi Amupitan, and the couple is blessed with four children.
