The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally ushered in a new era of leadership today with the historic handover to its newly appointed substantive Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, in a ceremony held at the Commission’s headquarters.

The event, which was marked by a sense of solemn duty and renewed commitment to democracy, served as an official introduction between the new Chairman and the core management staff of the Commission.

In her heartfelt welcome address, the Acting Chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, formally presented the handover notes to Professor Amupitan. She described the day as “a significant moment in the life of our commission and indeed our nation’s democratic journey.”

She highlighted the critical timing of his appointment, coming on the heels of the Commission’s final preparations for the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for 8th November 2025.

“You are assuming office at a most crucial time,” she stated, noting the absence of four National Commissioners who were currently in Anambra State on a readiness assessment exercise. “The task ahead, no doubt, is enormous. Elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and the expectations of Nigerians have never been higher.”

She assured the new Chairman that he was stepping onto “firm and fertile ground” laid by his predecessors and expressed unwavering confidence in the staff of INEC, whom she described as “some of the finest, most experienced, and most patriotic public servants in Nigeria.”

The ceremony featured the formal introduction of the Commission’s directors, referred to as the “generals on the field of electioneering,” who head INEC’s 23 departments. The directors present represented the full spectrum of the Commission’s operations.

The event was also graced by a high-powered delegation from the University of Jos, the alma mater of the new Chairman, underscoring the institution’s significant contribution to the nation’s electoral body. The delegation included the Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), the Bursar, and the Librarian.

Also present in a show of support were Professor Amupitan’s wife, Professor Yemisi Amupitan, and their children.

In his inaugural address, Professor Amupitan expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment and acknowledged the weight of the responsibility bestowed upon him.

He assured the staff of his commitment to “upholding the highest standard of integrity, transparency, and discipline,” and immediately zeroed in on the upcoming Anambra election, declaring it “a pivotal opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.”

“The eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is our duty to rise to that occasion,” he stated, emphasizing the need to restore voter confidence and address voter apathy.

Professor Amupitan called for unity and synergy among the Commission’s various departments.

“Let us break down silos. Foster open communications and create an environment where every voice is heard and valued,” he urged.

Significantly, he announced that staff welfare would be a top priority of his administration. “It’s a priority because we are going to expect so much from you. So, we need also to be so honest to meet your expectations,” he said, promising to be just and fair.

He concluded on a hopeful note, expressing his belief in the collective ability of the Commission to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

“Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly to create legitimacy of our elections.”

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi has urged traditional rulers in the state to imbibe the virtues of patience, tolerance, forgiveness, and dignity in the discharge of their duties.

Gov. Ododo gave the charge in Lokoja on Friday while presenting certificates to newly appointed traditional rulers into some vacant and newly created stools in the State.

Governor Ododo represented by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Salami Momodu Ozigi Deedat emphasized that traditional rulers are expected to serve as both peace makers and peace keepers within their communities.

Responding, representatives of the different Local Government Traditional Councils commended Governor Ododo for the principle of justice and equity with which chieftaincy issues are handled in the state, pledging their unalloyed support for his administration.

The traditional rulers are the Obaloko of Iloko; Ohireba Anebira of Lokoja; Onoba Obayin Anebira of Lokoja; Ohiekura of Osara; Ohindase of Okengwe; Ohi-uga of Asuwe; District Head, Ebiya and District Head, Adavi. The Ohi of Eganyi whose nomenclature was changed today will hence forth be addressed as the Ohi of Ajaokuta.

A tragic accident which occurred Wednesday evening in Felele, Lokoja, has reportedly claimed the life  of one woman, identified as Mrs. Kemi Emmanuel, a lecturer with the Federal University of Lokoja.

Core News gathered that the victim identified as a Theatre Arts Lecturer, was allegedly crushed by a heavy-duty trailer which lost control and struck the victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

This heartbreaking incident has again raised concerns over the alarming frequency of accidents involving heavy-duty trailers in along the Felele axis of the state capital..

Local residents and students are urging the Kogi State Government to take immediate action to enhance road safety and prevent further further loss of lives.

In light of the recent accident, residents are advocating for a restriction on trailer movements within the city during peak hours, suggesting that such vehicles should be prohibited from operating in the area until after 9:00 p.m, to reduce traffic risks and to ensure the safety of commuters, students and residents around the community.

This measure, they argue, would significantly reduce traffic risks and enhance the safety of commuters, students, and residents.