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By Myke Agunwa
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has sworn in Prof. Ayobami Rahmon as the new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Oyo State, with a charge to maintain integrity and strengthen electoral credibility in the state.
The brief ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja, where INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, administered the oath of office.
Speaking after the swearing-in, Prof. Amupitan described the appointment as a “critical responsibility at a crucial time,” noting that Oyo State remains one of the strategic electoral hubs in the country.
“You must understand the weight of the mandate you are taking on today,” the Chairman said. “The Commission expects nothing less than absolute professionalism, transparency, and strict adherence to the Electoral Act. The integrity of our elections rests on the conduct of officers like you.”
He reminded the new REC of INEC’s commitment to deepening the use of technology and improving public trust. “We cannot afford lapses. Your work will be closely scrutinized by political actors, civil society, the media, and, most importantly, the voters. You must justify the confidence reposed in you by the Commission and the people of Nigeria,”he stressed.
Prof. Amupitan also urged him to prioritise stakeholder engagement. “Dialogue remains one of our strongest tools. Engage the political parties, traditional rulers, security agencies and community leaders. When stakeholders trust the process, managing elections becomes easier,” he added.
In his response, Prof. Rahmon expressed gratitude to the Commission and pledged to uphold its values. “I am committed to fairness, transparency, and professionalism. I will work tirelessly to strengthen the credibility of the electoral process in Oyo State,” he said.
He also assured that he would promote peaceful political participation and ensure effective collaboration with all stakeholders.
Prof. Rahmon is expected to assume duties immediately at the Oyo State INEC officr