The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan (SAN), has called for a more robust and adaptive legal framework to address emerging governance challenges in Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
Amupitan made the call on Tuesday while chairing the 47th Founders’ Day Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, held at the Ayo Ajomo Auditorium, University of Lagos.
The lecture was themed: “Civic Participation, Rule of Law and Accountable Governance in a Digital Era.”
He stated that technological advancement has significantly altered governance structures globally, stressing the need for Nigeria’s legal and institutional frameworks to keep pace in order 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, however, warned that the digital space also presented serious risks.
“We are confronted with misinformation, digital manipulation, data breaches and concerns around artificial intelligence. These developments test the resilience of our legal system,” he added.
The INEC boss emphasised that innovation must not outstrip regulation.
“Technological advancements must not outpace regulation or undermine democratic institutions. Nigeria needs a forward-looking legal framework that promotes transparency while preserving the integrity of governance,” he stated.
Reflecting on the significance of Founders’ Day, Amupitan described it as both a moment of reflection and a call to action.
According to him, institutions remain relevant not merely by their history but by their responsiveness and impact.
He commended NIALS for bridging the gap between legal theory and practice, urging it to intensify its engagement with emerging digital governance issues.
“As the leading centre of legal scholarship, NIALS must continue interrogating new issues, generating evidence-based insights and guiding the development of adaptive legal frameworks,” he said.
, has called for a more robust and adaptive...){kind=link}