The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has cautioned the leadership of the Commission’s Staff Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society to uphold transparency, integrity, and accountability in the management of members’ funds.
Naijaonpoint reports that Amupitan gave the charge in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the Co-operative’s Annual General Meeting and election.
The INEC boss warned that the misuse of members’ contributions would not be tolerated, stressing that corruption erodes the trust that sustains any collective organisation.
He declared, “Corruption, in any form, is a poison to any institution, especially one built on collective trust.”
He reminded the executives that the co-operative’s funds do not belong to the leaders but to members who rely on the society for support in a difficult economic climate.
Amupitan urged both the outgoing and newly elected executives to demonstrate impeccable financial discipline.
According to him, “You must prioritise deft financial management and transparency. The co-operative money belongs to its members, and the executive is merely a trustee.”
He added, “Your books must be open, your transactions traceable, and your decisions justifiable.”
The INEC chairman insisted on zero tolerance for mismanagement, warning against frivolous or unauthorised spending.
“Cooperative money is not for party celebrations. Every naira must be accounted for and dedicated to profitable ventures to improve members’ welfare,” he said.
Amupitan also asked the co-operative leaders to ensure fairness and justice in the allocation of loans and welfare packages.
He stressed that every member must enjoy equal opportunity regardless of rank or influence.
“Every member, regardless of their position or connection, must have equal and fair access to the packages and benefits offered by the society,” he said.
He reminded the executives that their operations must always align with society’s rules and the principles of fairness, justice, and equity.
The INEC chairman further encouraged the group to pursue prudent, forward-looking investments capable of strengthening the co-operative.
“Good investment focus and a forward-thinking approach will help the society build a more resilient future,” Amupitan added.
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