The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday underscored its renewed push for institutional discipline and electoral integrity as its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, formally swore in Prof. Rahmon Tella as the new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Oyo State.
The ceremony, held at INEC headquarters, highlighted the commission’s broader strategy to strengthen election management nationwide through strategic redeployments and stricter administrative standards.
INEC, in a statement shared on its X handle, described the session as one conducted with “solemnity and purpose,” noting that the oath-taking aligned with Amupitan’s ongoing reforms aimed at entrenching discipline, integrity, and punctuality within the commission’s operations.
Speaking during the ceremony, Amupitan framed the swearing-in as a moment of renewed commitment rather than a mere procedural step. He stressed that the role of a REC carries immense public trust, reminding Tella that INEC’s mandate “transcends regulatory duty” and embodies “a moral and legal duty” to Nigerians.
“I admonish you that the integrity of our election is not negotiable,” the chairman stated. “You must uphold the highest standard of professionalism and integrity in every action you take… Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated.”
He further urged Tella to ensure that voters in Oyo State maintain confidence in the electoral process, charging him to serve as “a beacon of hope and democratic values.”
Prof. Tella, in his response, expressed gratitude for the chairman’s counsel, describing Amupitan’s remarks as “brimming with value and experience.” He pledged to align his conduct and leadership with INEC’s vision for credible elections.
Tella, a Professor of Strategic Management and Public Policy, is the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Social and Management Sciences at Atiba University, Oyo. His redeployment marks a return to familiar territory; he previously served as REC in Oyo and Ekiti states, representing Osun. INEC records show that his first term concluded in September 2025.
With his reinstatement in Oyo, INEC signals that reshaping its field leadership remains central to its ongoing effort to build public trust and enhance the quality of Nigeria’s electoral system.
