Natasha Backs New INEC Chair, Urges Tech-Driven Electoral Reforms

Stories by Onono Onimisi

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has hailed the credentials of Professor Joash Amupitan, describing his appointment as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a “proud moment” for Kogi State.

Speaking during his screening at the National Assembly on Thursday, Akpoti-Uduaghan said Prof. Amupitan’s track record in law and governance made him “eminently qualified” to lead Nigeria’s electoral body.

She noted that the professor of law, who once served as Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, possessed the vision and competence required to modernise Nigeria’s electoral process.

The Senator, who later took to Facebook Live to share her thoughts, commended the nominee’s emphasis on deploying technology in future elections, including the possible use of drones to enhance credibility and transparency.

She revealed that her office had earlier trained 80 youths in Kogi Central on the use of DJI drones for community and electoral monitoring, offering the list to INEC and the police for collaboration in upcoming polls.

“Kogi Central is ready,” she said. “We have young people trained in drone operations who can assist in ensuring credible elections.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan also urged the new INEC Chairman to push for full electronic and online voting, arguing that Nigerians’ participation in digital entertainment platforms like Big Brother Naija proves the feasibility of nationwide e-voting.

“If Nigerians can vote online for reality shows, then we can do the same for elections, especially for our citizens in the diaspora,” she said.

The lawmaker further proposed the integration of national identification systems—such as PVCs, NINs, international passports, and driver’s licences—to verify voters’ identities and safeguard electoral data.

She urged Prof. Amupitan to uphold the principles of law, equity, and fairness in his administration, expressing confidence that his leadership would inspire trust across party lines.

“Being a woman from the opposition, I believe he will not disappoint. Nigerians expect much from him, and we look forward to credible elections under his watch,” she added.