By Gabriel Ameh
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun a two-day anti-corruption workshop for its staff as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and integrity ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Election.
The training, themed “Corruption-Free Election: Integrity Matters (C-FEIM),” commenced on Monday at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Declaring the workshop open, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, represented by National Commissioner Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, described the programme as timely, noting that preparations for the 2027 elections require electoral officials to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
She said elections remain the foundation of democracy and warned that corruption in the electoral process weakens public confidence and undermines national development.
According to her, the workshop is designed to equip INEC personnel with the knowledge and practical skills needed to prevent corruption during the conduct of elections.
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu commended ICPC for partnering with the Commission and providing resource persons for the training. She encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, ask questions, and share experiences that would strengthen future electoral processes.
Speaking at the event, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu, SAN, who was represented by the Commission’s Director of Legal Services, Mr. Henry Emore, described corruption as one of the greatest obstacles to national development.
He said credible elections could only be achieved through transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to ethical standards by electoral officials.
Mr. Emore noted that electoral malpractice often leads to supplementary elections, increased security costs, and a rise in petitions and litigation, placing additional pressure on government institutions.
He stressed that the fight against corruption requires collective responsibility and reaffirmed ICPC’s commitment to supporting INEC in promoting free, fair, and credible elections.
He also praised electoral officers for their dedication and sacrifices in the discharge of their duties, expressing confidence that the workshop would further strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general election.
