Socio-cultural groups under the aegis of Ethnic Youth Leaders have passed a vote of confidence in the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, following the successful conduct of the Osun State governorship election.

The youth leaders described the election as a significant demonstration of Amupitan’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process and restoring public confidence in the electoral system.

In a statement signed by the Joint Convener, Mallam Kabiru Yusuf, the group said the INEC chairman had demonstrated professionalism, courage and commitment to electoral integrity since assuming office.

The youth leaders said the Osun election provided another opportunity for the electoral commission to demonstrate its readiness to conduct credible, transparent and peaceful elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to them, the conduct of the poll and its outcome had further enhanced public confidence in INEC and its leadership.

They said Amupitan’s performance during the election had earned him greater confidence among Nigerians, particularly young people who, they noted, remained important stakeholders in the country’s democratic development.

“The Osun governorship election has demonstrated that with professional leadership, transparency and commitment to electoral integrity, public confidence in the electoral process can be strengthened.

“We therefore pass a vote of confidence in Prof. Joash Amupitan for his leadership and the commitment demonstrated by the Commission in the conduct of the election,” the statement said.

The ethnic youth leaders also commended INEC officials, security agencies, election observers, political parties and voters for their respective contributions to the peaceful conduct of the election.

They urged Amupitan to sustain the momentum and continue with reforms aimed at making Nigeria’s electoral process more transparent, inclusive and credible.

The group said the Osun election should be regarded as a positive development in the country’s continuing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and improve the credibility of elections.

They further urged all stakeholders to build on the lessons from the poll as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.