By Chioma Favour
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has identified declining public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system as one of the most pressing challenges confronting the country ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Abuja at a stakeholder briefing and presentation of the Annotated Peace Accord organised by the National Peace Committee, Amupitan warned that the growing trust deficit poses a serious threat to democratic legitimacy.
He linked recent low voter turnout figures to waning public faith in the electoral process, stressing that participation is essential for strengthening the credibility of elected leaders.
“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,” he said.
Legality Must Be Matched with Legitimacy
Amupitan noted that Nigeria’s electoral landscape remains diverse, complex and highly competitive, adding that democratic growth must be anchored not only on legality, but also on legitimacy.
He emphasised that electoral processes must be transparent enough to inspire public confidence.
“Let the process be so transparent that whoever emerges will not only have legality, but legitimacy,” he stated.
The INEC chairman assured stakeholders that the Commission remains open to scrutiny and constructive criticism, describing INEC as constitutionally entrusted with safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
Tackling Misinformation, Vote Buying and Register Integrity
The INEC boss raised concerns over misinformation and false narratives during elections, warning that disinformation undermines trust and can heighten tensions.
He disclosed that the Commission is working closely with security agencies and other institutions to counter disinformation and ensure accurate reporting.
On electoral offences, particularly vote buying and vote trading, Amupitan stressed that such acts remain criminal under Nigerian law and called for decisive investigation and prosecution by law enforcement agencies.
He also highlighted efforts to sanitise the voter register, acknowledging concerns about duplications and outdated records. According to him, maintaining an authentic and credible register remains foundational to credible elections.
Ekiti, Osun Elections Seen as Testing Ground
Looking ahead, the INEC chairman described the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun 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 strengthen operational readiness.
Amupitan further appealed for the timely release of election funds in line with amended legal provisions, noting that early access to resources is crucial for logistics, procurement and overall planning.
Peace Committee Reaffirms Support
Chairman of the National Peace Committee and former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to fostering dialogue and mediation.
Represented by Matthew Hassan Kukah, he stated that since 2015, the Peace Accord has served as a stabilising instrument in Nigeria’s electoral process.
“The responsibility of safeguarding our democracy rests with all of us,” he said, urging political actors, institutions and citizens to act with restraint and responsibility.
