The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), has reassured Nigerians that every valid vote in the 2027 general elections will be counted. He reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to ensuring elections that are free, fair, credible, transparent, and inclusive.
Amupitan made this commitment during a visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State. This visit is part of INEC’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders as preparation for the 2027 elections intensifies.
In his discussion with General Abubakar, the INEC chairman emphasized the Commission’s resolve to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process so that election outcomes truly reflect the people’s will. Our aim is to assure Nigerians that every valid vote will be counted in the upcoming general elections, Amupitan stated.
He highlighted that INEC is already reviewing its operational strategies and engaging with political parties, security agencies, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and development partners to boost public confidence in the electoral system. The Commission is dedicated to improving election logistics, expanding the use of technology where applicable, enhancing voter education, and ensuring strict adherence to the Electoral Act and the Constitution.
Amupitan also called on political parties and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns and eschew violence, hate speech, vote-buying, misinformation, and any other activities that could undermine the democratic process.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar praised the INEC chairman for his visit and reiterated the National Peace Committee’s commitment to supporting peaceful, credible, and violence-free elections nationwide. He urged political leaders to prioritize Nigeria’s national interest over personal ambitions and to respect the democratic process before, during, and after the 2027 elections. He stated that the National Peace Committee would continue to engage with political parties and candidates to encourage dialogue, tolerance, and genuine implementation of peace agreements.
Political observers believe this meeting highlights the crucial collaboration between INEC and the National Peace Committee in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy. They noted that sustained stakeholder engagement, institutional independence, and transparency are vital for reinforcing public trust in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 polls.
Since taking office as INEC Chairman in October 2025, Professor Amupitan has consistently pledged to uphold the Commission’s independence and deliver elections characterized by integrity and professionalism.
