The Okun Development Association has expressed strong support for the appointment of Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, while urging Nigerians and political stakeholders to remain calm in their reactions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its President General, Akenson Rotimi, the association praised Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as a merit-based appointment.
The group said the choice of Amupitan reflects competence and integrity, adding that it brings pride to Okunland, Kogi State, and Nigerians who believe in rewarding capacity and character in public office.
“The Okun Development Association (ODA), on behalf of Okun sons and daughters worldwide, extends sincere appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the appointment of Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.
“We receive this decision as a clear endorsement of competence and character, and as a call to national service anchored on merit.
“ODA declares, without reservations, our unflinching support for Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN as he assumes leadership of INEC at a defining moment in our nation’s democratic journey. His public and academic record reflect uncommon discipline, fidelity to due process, and abiding respect for institutions.
“In every assignment he has handled, Amupitan has shown the temperament, intellectual depth, and moral courage required to manage sensitive national duties with fairness and firmness. We are assured that these qualities will guide his stewardship of the Commission.”
The association described Amupitan as a symbol of integrity, highlighting his contributions as both a scholar and administrator.
“Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN personifies the values Okunland holds dear: honesty, hard work, humility, and service above self. As a scholar, he has raised generations of Nigerians who today serve in critical sectors of our society. As an administrator, he has built systems that outlast individuals. His commitment to strong, impartial institutions is exactly what INEC requires to consolidate public trust.
“We are confident that under his leadership, the Commission will discharge its constitutional mandate without fear or favour, and that his tenure will strengthen the credibility of our electoral process,” the statement added.
While acknowledging that the role would attract scrutiny, the group urged stakeholders to follow due process in addressing grievances.
“ODA is mindful that the office of INEC Chairman will always attract intense public scrutiny. While such scrutiny is part of democracy, we respectfully remind all stakeholders, political actors, and concerned citizens that Nigeria’s constitutional order provides established channels for resolving disputes. We therefore urge any aggrieved parties to ventilate their concerns through the appropriate legal and institutional mechanisms.
“We call for restraint in public commentary and ask all Nigerians to grant Prof. Amupitan the calm and institutional space needed to serve the nation with neutrality, courage and desired results,” the group said.
Reaffirming its commitment to national unity and democratic stability, the association expressed confidence in both Amupitan and the current administration.
“The Okun Development Association reaffirms its commitment to national unity, democratic stability, and the success of the Tinubu administration.
“We assure the President and the Nigerian people that Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN will discharge his responsibilities with honour, bringing credibility and candour to his office, to Okunland, and to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The group also urged Nigerians to support and pray for the new INEC chairman as he undertakes the responsibility.