By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja, Nigeria. The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has underscored the critical role of credible elections in strengthening Nigeria’s national security.
Speaking at the 2nd Annual Lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies held at the NAF Club in Abuja, Amupitan described elections and security as inseparable, stressing that a safe and stable environment is essential for conducting free, fair, and credible polls.
He identified key challenges undermining Nigeria’s electoral system, including electoral malpractice, threats of violence, and vote trading. According to him, these issues erode public confidence in the democratic process and pose significant risks to national stability.
Amupitan called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders INEC, security agencies, civil society organisations, and the electorate to safeguard the integrity of elections.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the INEC Chairman announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on February 6, 2027.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering credible elections, highlighting ongoing efforts such as enhanced voter education, the integration of technology, and the deployment of robust security frameworks.
The INEC boss also raised concerns about voter apathy, describing it as a potential security threat. He urged Nigerians to actively participate in the electoral process, noting that every vote contributes to building a stable and secure nation.
“A vote cast is a brick laid in the wall of national security,” he said, adding that credible elections help build trust in governance an essential element for peace and stability.
Amupitan further outlined priority areas for reform, including voter enlightenment, technological advancement, inclusivity in the electoral process, and the elimination of electoral malpractices.
He assured Nigerians that INEC is fully committed to conducting a transparent and credible electoral process in 2027, describing the upcoming elections as a test of Nigeria’s institutional strength and democratic resilience.
The remarks come as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections amid ongoing security challenges such as insurgency and communal conflicts, reinforcing the urgency of credible and peaceful polls.
