The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, on Tuesday administered the oath of office to Professor Rahmon Tella, formally reinstating him as the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Oyo State.
Describing the swearing-in as “a solemn occasion” and “a call to duty,” Professor Amupitan said there is a weight of responsibility now resting on Tella’s shoulders. He said the redeployed REC is returning to Oyo at a crucial time, where his role will once again place him at the frontline of Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a keynote address that blended moral clarity with firm resolve, the INEC chairman stressed that the commission’s mandate goes far beyond regulatory obligations. Instead, he framed it as both “a moral and legal duty” owed to citizens whose faith in democracy must be consistently nurtured and protected.
“I admonish you that the integrity of our election is not negotiable,” Amupitan said, delivering a pointed reminder that strict professionalism and transparency would guide operations under his leadership. “Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated.”
He charged the new REC with a mission to reinforce voter confidence and ensure every ballot cast reflects the true will of the people. Under his strategic direction, he said, Professor Tella must serve as “a beacon of hope and democratic values” across Oyo State.
Responding to the charge, Professor Tella expressed profound appreciation for the chairman’s leadership and vision. He lauded Amupitan’s remarks as “rich with value and experience” and pledged to uphold the commission’s standards while working to advance credible elections within the state.
