The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that the Commission is taking decisive steps to safeguard the integrity of the 2027 general elections through improved technology, stronger legal measures, and enhanced voter education.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, the INEC chairman said preparations for the next general election are already underway, with a strong focus on addressing challenges experienced in previous elections.
Professor Amupitan explained that the Commission has introduced measures designed to curb electoral malpractice, particularly ballot box snatching, tampering with election materials, and other forms of manipulation that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. He noted that INEC remains committed to ensuring that every valid vote is counted and accurately reflected in the final election results.
The INEC chairman also reviewed recent electoral exercises, including the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections and the off-cycle governorship election in Ekiti State. According to him, the polls highlighted persistent challenges, especially low voter turnout and widespread uncertainty among many voters over the relocation of polling units and the transfer of voter registration details.
He expressed concern that despite efforts to improve the electoral process, many eligible voters were either unaware of changes affecting their polling locations or chose not to participate in the elections. He described voter apathy and the spread of misinformation as major obstacles that could affect the success of future elections if left unaddressed.
Professor Amupitan therefore called for intensified public enlightenment campaigns to ensure that Nigerians are better informed about electoral procedures, voter registration, and the importance of participating in the democratic process.
On his part, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working closely with INEC to educate citizens on their civic responsibilities and promote greater participation in future elections.
Both organisations agreed to deepen their partnership through sustained voter education campaigns, public awareness programmes, and community engagement initiatives aimed at improving voter turnout and strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The renewed collaboration is expected to play a key role in encouraging informed participation and reinforcing public trust in the country’s democratic institutions as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.
