2027: INEC seeks NPC’s support to strengthen trust, ensure credible General Elections

*Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, appeals to the National Peace Committee, and other critical stakeholders to intensify efforts at rebuilding public trust and strengthening peaceful participation in Nigeria’s electoral process

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appealed to the National Peace Committee (NPC), and other critical stakeholders to intensify efforts at rebuilding public trust and strengthening peaceful participation in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of INEC, stated this Monday, March 2, 2026, at the Stakeholder Briefing and Presentation of the Annotated Peace Accord, which the NPC organised in Abuja, FCT.

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The electoral body said the event brought together leaders of political parties, heads of security agencies, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), underscoring broad-based commitment to peaceful and credible elections. General Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, ex-Head of State and Chairman of the Committee, was represented at the event by the Convener of the Peace Committee, Most Revd. (Dr.) Matthew Hassan Kukah.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Amupitan underscored the urgency of restoring confidence in the electoral system, describing the prevailing trust deficit as a major concern for the Commission.

He also stated: “So for us, we appeal to the National Peace Committee to help us in the area of building trust.

“The trust deficit is such that anywhere you go, it’s palpable.

“If voters will not participate, then whoever emerges… it is also in our own interest that everybody continues to participate. We’ll get it right one day.”

According to him, virtually all the members Commission, except for those who were out of town, as well as relevant Directors and other senior Management Staff of INEC were at the engagement.

This is said to have indicated the seriousness with which the Commission treats issues concerning elections and democratic consolidation in the West African country.

Amupitan further described Nigeria’s electoral landscape as diverse, complex and highly competitive.

He emphasised that democratic growth must be anchored not only on legality but also legitimacy.

The Chairman of INEC stated: “Let the process be so transparent that whoever emerges will not only have legality but legitimacy.”

He also said that the Commission remaind open to scrutiny and constructive criticism.

“Constitutionally, INEC is the custodian of Nigerian democracy and elections. Whatever comments are made, we don’t get angry.

“We take them, process them and see how we can improve,” noted he.

Prof. Amupitan emphasised that while INEC continues to refine its processes, the responsibility of credible elections cannot rest on the Commission alone.

He, therefore, urged political parties to strengthen voter mobilisation and internal discipline.

Sustained civic engagement, he stated, is vital to reversing declining turnout.

Amupitan as well expressed concern about low voter turnout in recent elections, noting that broad-based confidence in the system is essential for democratic legitimacy.

The Chairman further highlighted steps taken by the Commission to improve results management and address public concerns around transparency.

Without disclosing operational details, he stated that additional safeguards had been introduced to ensure consistency and accuracy in results handling, adding that these measures were tested in recent elections.

On misinformation about electoral process

In regard to misinformation, Prof. Amupita warned that the spread of false narratives during elections undermines public confidence and could inflame tensions.

He disclosed that the Commission works closely with security agencies and relevant institutions to counter disinformation and ensure factual reporting of electoral processes.

Addressing the issue of electoral offences, particularly vote trading, the INEC Chairman reiterated that such practices remain criminal under Nigerian law and must be dealt with decisively.

He urged law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations promptly and pursue prosecution where necessary.

The Commission, he said, is also prioritising the sanitisation of the voter register, acknowledging concerns about duplications and outdated records.

According to him, ensuring an authentic and credible register remains a foundational element of credible elections.

Looking ahead to the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, Prof. Amupitan described them as critical milestones on the road to 2027.

He disclosed that INEC is considering additional technology testing, including mock exercises in selected polling units, to further strengthen operational preparedness.

The Chairman appealed for the timely release of election funds in accordance with the amended legal provisions, stressing that early access to resources is crucial for procurement, logistics and overall planning.

Earlier, in his welcome address delivered on his behalf, General Abdulsalami had reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to providing a neutral platform for dialogue, mediation and confidence-building.

The erstwhile Head of State noted that since 2015, the Peace Accord has served as a stabilising instrument in Nigeria’s electoral process.

He described the Annotated Peace Accord as a strengthened framework designed to provide clarity, guidance and preventive engagement among stakeholders.

Abubakar stated: “The responsibility of safeguarding our democracy rests with all of us.”

He advocated sustained collaboration, restraint and responsible conduct from political actors, institutions and citizens alike.

INEC said participation in the stakeholder briefing formed part of the Prof. Amupitan’s ongoing engagements aimed at deepening cooperation among electoral stakeholders, reinforcing peaceful conduct and strengthening public confidence as preparations gradually intensify towards the 2027 General Elections.

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