The Accord political party has urged the newly sworn-in Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Joash Amupitan to discharge his statutory duties without fear or favour.

The party also reminded the new INEC boss that much is expected of him at this critical period of the nation’s democratic process.

DAILY POST reported that Amupitan was sworn-in as the Chairman of INEC, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday following his confirmation by the Council of State and National Assembly.

Accord said the appointment was well deserved based on his track record and wealth of experience as a legal luminary, esteemed academic and seasoned administrator.

“Our great party urges him to discharge his statutory duties without fear or favour as so much is expected of him at this critical period of the nation’s democratic process, the party said in statement signed by Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, its National Chairman.

“The challenges ahead are enormous and will require patriotism and collaboration with critical stakeholders to deliver free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections.

“A major test of the new INEC leadership is the 8th November 2025, Anambra State governorship election. Citizens’ expectations are high.

“Nigerians want their votes to count in all elections. The commission should justify the confidence citizens repose in it. Adequate preparation should be made ensuring that electoral materials and equipment are ready and functional to avoid glitches and logistical issues.

“Being the first election to be conducted by Professor Joash Amupitan all eyes will be on the commission to rate his performance.

“The need to be neutral and provide a level playing field to all the political parties and their candidates participating in the election cannot be overemphasized. Its success will inspire confidence in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory’s Area Council elections, the Ekiti and Osun gubernatorial Elections leading to the decisive 2027 general election.”

The party urged Professor Amupitan to consolidate on the innovations introduced by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu and improve on them to deliver credible and acceptable elections.

“This will go a long way to rebuild trust in the electoral process and reduce litigations that overheat the polity after elections,” Accord added.