Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), has called on the leadership of the Commission’s Staff Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society to handle members’ funds with the same discipline, transparency, and fairness expected in the conduct of national elections. This was contained in INEC Daily Bulletin, Volume 2, Number 413, of December 4, 2025.
He gave the charge at the 19th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and election of new officers held on Wednesday, 3rd December, 2025, at the INEC Headquarters in Abuja, where he reminded members that the principles guiding Nigeria’s electoral system must equally guide the stewardship of their collective savings.
Speaking with a mix of caution and conviction, the Chairman underscored that co-operative funds are a sacred trust. He warned that corruption in any form is poisonous to an institution built on confidence and shared responsibility. “Co-operative money belongs to the members. The Exco is merely a trustee,” he said, urging the outgoing and incoming executive committees to maintain open books, traceable transactions, and clear justification for every financial decision. His message carried the unmistakable tone of a man determined to preserve discipline in every corner of the Commission’s administrative ecosystem.
As members prepared to elect new officers, the INEC Chairman charged them to approach the internal election with the same discipline and fairness INEC demands of public elections. He reminded them that they remain one family and must not allow campaign passions to dilute unity.
Professor Amupitan closed by reaffirming the Commission’s support for the Co-operative, describing it as a vital arm of staff welfare and a model of collective upliftment. He encouraged members to stay committed to the ideals of transparency, solidarity, and economic empowerment.
The AGM also served as a reminder of the economic pressures facing staff, with the Chairman urging the Society’s leadership to stay focused on members’ welfare, ensure fairness in accessing loans, and uphold equity regardless of rank or connections. He encouraged a future-facing approach that prioritises resilience, smart investments, and a financial culture where every member feels protected and empowered.
The President of the Co-operative Society, Mr. Nenrot Gana, in his annual report, began on a solemn note as members observed a minute of silence in honour of six colleagues who passed away during the year under review. He acknowledged inflation and limited resources as major challenges but said the Society remained steadfast in serving members efficiently. He highlighted quick loan disbursements, the automation of financial transactions, prompt settlement of savings for retiring members, improved stability, and strengthened trust as key achievements of his administration.
Gana also announced that members now have access to shop at all SAHAD Stores in the city, expanding options for essential commodities ahead of the festive season. He reassured members that partnerships with Samsung, LG, and Thermocool remain active and urged them to take advantage of these benefits. He added that no main loan disbursement will take place in January and February 2026, allowing the Co-operative to reorganize for a smoother financial year.
Expressing gratitude to the Commission for continuous support, Gana urged INEC to activate the Staff Housing provision in the Conditions of Service, noting that many staff continue to struggle with accommodation. He reaffirmed the loyalty of the Co-operative and its readiness to continue complementing the Commission’s welfare efforts.
Gana further revealed that the 2026 Co-operative elections will be conducted online through the Fuse Go app, signaling a shift toward a more modern, accessible voting system.
The AGM ended on a warm note, with the President extending Christmas and New Year wishes to all members, expressing hope for a more prosperous year ahead, one built on unity, discipline, and a shared commitment to the welfare of every member of the INEC family.
The election, held shortly after the AGM, proceeded in a calm and orderly atmosphere, with members casting their ballots without tension or controversy. At the end of the process, several candidates secured their seats unopposed, while others won through keen but friendly contests.
In the final tally, Mr. Nenrot Gana was returned as President unopposed, continuing his stewardship of the Society. Agyo Ato Bala emerged as Vice President, while Dr. Effiong E. Sunday was elected Secretary General unopposed.
Other positions saw a similar pattern: Yahaya Mahmoud was returned unopposed as Assistant Secretary, Alali Fubara emerged Treasurer unopposed, and Onalo Mary Peace was elected Financial Secretary unopposed. Ibrahim Adamu also secured the position of Internal Auditor without opposition.
For the other contested offices, Adegbite Funmilayo won the vote for Public Relations Officer, while Pius Martha emerged as Welfare Officer, rounding off a peaceful and well-organised internal election that echoed INEC’s ethos of fairness and transparency.
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