Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, is a distinguished Nigerian legal scholar, administrator, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) who has been nominated by President Bola Tinubu to serve as the next Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His nomination was unanimously approved by the National Council of State on October 9, 2025.
Background and Early Life
- Origin: Professor Amupitan hails from Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, in the North-Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. His nomination marks the first time a person from Kogi State has been selected for the top INEC post.
- Apolitical Stance: He is noted for his apolitical stance and impeccable record of service and integrity, which President Tinubu cited as key factors in his selection.
Academic and Professional Career
Professor Amupitan’s career spans over three decades, marked by rapid ascent in academia and significant contributions to the legal profession.
Education
- He is an alumnus of the University of Jos (UniJos), where he obtained his law degrees:
- Bachelor of Law (LL.B.) in 1987.
- Master of Law (LL.M.) in 1993.
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Law in 2007.
- He was Called to Bar in 1988 after successfully completing his program at the Nigerian Law School, Lagos.
University of Jos
- Professor Amupitan began his teaching career at the University of Jos in 1989 as an Assistant Lecturer.
- He rose through the academic ranks, becoming a Reader in 2003 and a Professor of Law in 2008.
- During his time at UniJos, he held several key administrative positions, including:
- Head of the Department of Public Law.
- Dean, Faculty of Law.
- Chairman, Committee of Deans and Directors.
- Member of the Governing Council.
Legal Eminence and Specialization
- In recognition of his achievements in the law profession, he was conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2014.
- His areas of specialization and research interests are diverse, covering:
- Law of Evidence.
- Corporate Governance and Corporate Law.
- Privatization Law.
- Reform of Electoral Laws in Nigeria (a highly relevant focus for the INEC role).
Other Leadership Roles
- Professor Amupitan has demonstrated continued dedication to academic leadership, having been inaugurated as the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of the Governing Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University in December 2023.
Family and Personal Life
- Spouse: Professor Amupitan is married to Dr. (Mrs) Yemisi Amupitan.
- Children: The couple is blessed with four children.
Professor Amupitan’s nomination now awaits screening and confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.
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