INEC Chairman Names Veteran Journalist Adedayo Oketola as Chief Press Secretary 

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has tapped Adedayo Oketola, a seasoned journalist and former Editor of The PUNCH newspaper, as the new Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

The announcement, made public on Monday via an INEC statement, marks a significant step in bolstering the commission’s public engagement as it gears up for a transformative phase under Amupitan’s leadership.

Oketola steps into the role previously held by Rotimi Oyekanmi, who served under Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Amupitan’s predecessor. With nearly two decades of media expertise, Oketola brings a formidable resume to the table.

His tenure at The PUNCH saw him rise through the ranks as News Editor, Business Editor, and Assistant Editor of News & Politics for Saturday PUNCH, culminating in his leadership as Editor.

Under his stewardship, The PUNCH clinched the prestigious Newspaper of the Year title, while Oketola himself was honored as Editor of the Year at the 2023 Nigeria Media Merit Awards and the 2022 Industry Awards.

His global accolades include the Zimeo Excellence in Media Awards in Johannesburg (2015) and Nairobi (2016), cementing his reputation as a newsroom titan.

In a statement following his appointment, INEC highlighted Oketola’s “strong record of professional excellence” and his ability to navigate complex media landscapes, qualities expected to enhance the commission’s communication strategy as it faces mounting scrutiny ahead of future elections.

The appointment comes on the heels of Prof. Amupitan’s swearing-in, where he laid out an ambitious vision for Nigeria’s electoral future. Speaking with a blend of conviction and humility, Amupitan described his role as divinely ordained.

“I am here for a purpose. Maybe if I had a choice, I would have said I would not come here. But from all indications, I can see that God is moving this country, and my coming is divine,” he said.

To deliver “free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the people,” with an unwavering commitment to integrity and transparency. “The integrity of our elections is not negotiable. Every voter must feel confident that their vote counts,” he emphasized.

Amupitan also signaled a focus on internal reforms, particularly staff welfare, which he described as a cornerstone of INEC’s success. “We will expect a lot from you, and because of that, you also deserve to be well-equipped and supported to deliver,” he told INEC staff, promising improved working conditions and resources to drive excellence.

As Nigeria grapples with electoral challenges and public skepticism, Oketola’s journalistic pedigree and Amupitan’s reformist zeal could prove a potent combination.