INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan urges a robust digital governance framework to safeguard democracy amid Nigeria’s fast-evolving technology landscape

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan (SAN), called for a more robust and adaptive legal framework to address emerging governance challenges in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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Amupitan made the appeal on Tuesday while chairing the 47th Founders’ Day Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) at the Ayo Ajomo Auditorium, University of Lagos.

The lecture, themed “Civic Participation, Rule of Law and Accountable Governance in a Digital Era,” explored how technological advancements are reshaping governance globally and in Nigeria.

Amupitan stressed that legal and institutional frameworks must evolve to safeguard democratic processes.

“We are living in a time when technology is fundamentally reshaping governance. From digital platforms that amplify citizens’ voices to tools that enhance transparency, technology is creating vast opportunities for participation and accountability,” Amupitan said.

He also cautioned that digital innovation presents serious risks, including misinformation, data breaches and artificial intelligence challenges, warning that technological advancements must not outpace regulation or undermine democratic institutions.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mr Theodore Maiyaki, delivering the keynote lecture, echoed the INEC boss’s concerns, highlighting that digital tools could both strengthen and weaken democracy.

“Citizens no longer participate only through town halls or ballot boxes, but through hashtags, petitions, online campaigns and virtual communities,” Maiyaki said.

He stressed that civic engagement must extend beyond elections and that digital safeguards are essential for transparency and accountability.

The event also saw contributions from Prof Abiola Sanni (SAN), Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, who advocated closer collaboration between the faculty and NIALS to advance legal scholarship.

Prof Abdulqadir Abikan, Director-General of NIALS, highlighted the institute’s efforts in policy support, training, and infrastructure development, including the recovery of institute property at Dolphin Estate after a 16-year legal dispute.

Dignitaries present included Obi Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN), the Asagba of Asaba, Lagos State Attorney-General Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN), Justice Hakeem Oshodi, and Justice Modupe Nicole-Clay.

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Amupitan concluded that institutions remain relevant not merely by history but by their responsiveness and impact, urging NIALS to continue generating evidence-based insights and guiding the development of adaptive legal frameworks to ensure accountability in Nigeria’s digital governance.