The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has urged the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to place national interest above all and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
The Acting National Chairman of the party, Dr Sadiq Gombe, made the appeal in a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Mr Rufus Aiyenigba, on Friday in Abuja.
Gombe said the widespread optimism surrounding Amupitan’s appointment reflected the confidence of Nigerians in his capacity to deliver credible elections and restore trust in the electoral process.
He noted that the party expected the new INEC chief to prioritise Nigeria’s true democratic interests, particularly in the forthcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states, which he described as a test of Amupitan’s leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Gombe expressed confidence that Amupitan’s integrity, competence, and distinguished record — as affirmed by Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State during the Council of State meeting — would translate into meaningful reforms at the commission.
He urged Amupitan to uphold the rule of law, respect the autonomy of political parties, and ensure that INEC remained impartial in its oversight role.
“We expect that under his watch, the commission will give rule of law a pride of place, respect party sovereignty, and boost public confidence in its operations,” he said.
Gombe added that the SDP anticipated a leadership that would inspire staff morale, improve public perception, and align INEC operations with global best practices to achieve lasting institutional transformation.
While commending the immediate past INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for his service, Gombe said the party hoped Amupitan’s tenure would usher in “a genuine renewal of hope and a refreshing experience for Nigerians.”
He called on political actors, civil society groups, and citizens to support Amupitan in his efforts to strengthen electoral integrity and democratic governance.
Gombe reaffirmed the SDP’s commitment to defending democratic principles, saying the party would remain vigilant and oppose any actions that undermine democratic values.
(NAN)