CODE Applauds Appointment of Prof. Amupitan as INEC Chairman, Calls for Restoration of Public Trust in Nigeria’s Elections

By Maryam Aminu

In what many describe as a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy, Connected Development (CODE), the civic organization behind the Follow The Money initiative and election observation platform Uzabe has applauded the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement issued on Friday, October 24, 2025, CODE commended the federal government’s choice, describing the appointment as both “a moment of opportunity and a test of integrity” for the nation’s electoral system.

The organization noted that while Nigeria has made commendable strides in the use of technology in recent elections, recurring issues around transparency, logistics, and credibility have eroded citizens’ faith in the process.

“Trust cannot be legislated; it must be earned through openness, consistency, and the courage to place citizens above politics,” the statement read. “Prof. Amupitan must rebuild that bridge of confidence between citizens and the ballot.”

As one of INEC’s long-standing civil society partners, CODE urged the new Chairman to prioritize trust-building as the cornerstone of his leadership, emphasizing that democracy must serve every Nigerian especially those in rural and marginalized communities rather than the political elite.

The group further called for inclusivity in electoral reforms, stressing that women, youth, and persons with disabilities continue to face barriers to full participation. “INEC must design systems that meet people where they are and ensure that no voter is left behind,” CODE added.

Reiterating the need for institutional independence, the organization urged Prof. Amupitan to uphold INEC’s autonomy and protect it from political interference.

CODE also called for greater transparency through open election data, financial accountability, and continuous civic engagement.

Through its Uzabe platform, CODE pledged continued collaboration with INEC to promote real-time transparency and accountability in future elections, ensuring that “Nigeria’s democracy not only counts votes but makes every vote count.”