ABUJA: Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has disclosed that he accepted his appointment only after receiving what he described as a clear divine assurance from God.
Speaking in Abuja during a thanksgiving service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention for its outgoing President, Israel Akanji, Amupitan said he would have declined the role without that spiritual conviction.
According to him, he received a reassuring message before taking up the position. The Lord told me, Fear not; do not be dismayed. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you, he said, noting that this assurance gave him the confidence to lead the electoral body.
Amupitan explained that the conviction has continued to guide him in office despite the challenges associated with overseeing elections in Nigeria. He added that faith has remained central to his leadership approach, especially in navigating complex electoral responsibilities.
He also called on Nigerians to support the commission through prayers, expressing optimism that the 2027 general elections could surpass previous polls.
“I cannot do it alone, but with God on my side, it is possible,” he said, urging citizens to remain hopeful about the country’s democratic process.
The INEC chairman further advised leaders against taking up responsibilities without a clear sense of purpose or divine direction.
If God does not send you, do not go there. If He does not send you, do not do it,” he cautioned.
Amupitan was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in October 2025, succeeding Mahmood Yakubu as the sixth substantive chairman of the commission.
His remarks come amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, as concerns around electoral transparency, neutrality, and public trust continue to dominate national discourse.
In recent weeks, his leadership has faced scrutiny following allegations linked to past social media activity suggesting partisan leanings, raising concerns among opposition parties and civil society groups over the commission’s independence.
Despite the controversies, Amupitan maintained confidence in his leadership, insisting that with divine guidance, the commission can deliver credible elections in 2027.
