Ibadan, Oyo – In a ceremony underscoring the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) commitment to upholding democratic standards, Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan on Tuesday swore in Prof. Rahmon Tella as the new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Oyo State.

The event, held at INEC's headquarters in Abuja, comes amid ongoing efforts to bolster electoral administration across Nigeria's diverse regions.

The swearing-in ritual, marked by its solemnity, saw Tella pledge his oath of office in the presence of senior commission officials. Amupitan, administering the oath, emphasized the gravity of the role, describing it as "a solemn occasion that calls to duty."

Tella, a Professor of Strategic Management and Public Policy and Deputy Dean at Atiba University in Oyo, brings extensive experience to the position, having previously served as REC in both Oyo and Ekiti states during his first term, which concluded in September 2025.

Representing Osun State on the commission, Tella's redeployment to Oyo is viewed as a strategic move to inject fresh leadership and continuity into the state's electoral framework.

Amupitan did not mince words in his address, issuing a pointed warning against any form of compromise in electoral processes.

"The integrity of our election is not negotiable," he declared

"You must uphold the highest standard of professionalism and integrity in every action you take… Any compromise on our values or our procedures shall not be tolerated.", he noted

He further urged Tella to foster voter confidence in Oyo State, ensuring that "their ballots will count," and to position himself as "a beacon of hope and democratic values."

In response, Tella expressed gratitude for the opportunity and alignment with INEC's vision. "The honourable chairman’s remarks are very much brimming with value and experience," he said, vowing to deliver on the commission's mandate with unwavering dedication.

The appointment arrives at a pivotal time for INEC, as Nigeria prepares for upcoming electoral activities amid persistent calls for transparency and efficiency in the country's voting systems. Amupitan reiterated that the commission's role extends beyond mere regulation, embodying a "moral and legal duty to Nigerians."

Observers see Tella's installation as a reinforcement of these principles, particularly in Oyo State, known for its vibrant political landscape and history of competitive elections.

This development is part of INEC's broader strategy to rotate and appoint seasoned administrators, aiming to mitigate risks of partisanship and enhance public trust in the democratic process.