The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has vowed to intensify its fight against all forms of election malpractice, including vote-buying, as Prof. Adeniran Tella was sworn in as a new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) on Tuesday in Abuja.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), described the ceremony as a solemn call to duty, urging the new REC to uphold the Commission’s core principles of transparency, professionalism, and strict adherence to the Electoral Act.
“The credibility of our electoral system is the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy,” Amupitan said.
“Your role as a Resident Electoral Commissioner is critical to the success of this democratic project. The integrity of our elections is non-negotiable. Any misconduct, by omission or commission, shall not be tolerated.”
The chairman emphasized that INEC is committed to delivering free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections that genuinely reflect the will of Nigerians.
He also warned that any compromise on electoral procedures or ethical standards would be unacceptable.
Amupitan charged Tella to work closely with INEC staff to ensure that Oyo State, where he has been posted, becomes a model of electoral integrity.
He stressed that restoring credibility to the electoral process is vital for addressing voter apathy and strengthening public confidence in democracy.
In his response, Prof. Tella thanked INEC for the smooth swearing-in and pledged to uphold professionalism, fairness, and transparency in all electoral activities, drawing on his extensive experience in public administration and election management.
