Nigeria’s 2027 elections will be the most credible

 – Amupitan

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has assured Nigerians that the 2027 general elections will be the most credible in the country’s history, driven by sweeping reforms introduced by the newly signed Electoral Act 2026.

Amupitan gave the assurance in Abuja at a Citizens’ Town Hall Meeting titled “What It Means for Your Vote and the 2027 Elections,” organised by the Civil Society Network on Electoral Integrity.

He described the new law as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic process, saying it strengthens transparency, restores public confidence, and enhances electoral legitimacy.

Signed into law on February 18, the Electoral Act 2026 emerged from a three-year consultative process involving the National Assembly, civil society organisations and INEC.

Amupitan commended advocacy groups for sensitising citizens on the law’s provisions, adding that civic engagement is indispensable to democratic consolidation.

He stressed that democracy thrives on an informed electorate, quoting Abraham Lincoln’s famous words that “the ballot is more powerful than the bullet.”

He warned that voter ignorance poses a threat to both national security and democratic progress.

Responding to concerns about the technical glitches that affected the electronic transmission of results during the 2023 presidential election, the INEC chairman assured Nigerians that the issues have been resolved.

He explained that, although devices performed well in off-cycle state elections, they were not adequately stress-tested for nationwide use during the presidential poll. He disclosed that the Commission will conduct extensive, nationwide stress-testing of its systems ahead of the 2027 general elections to ensure seamless inter-state transmission.

Amupitan also noted that mandatory electronic transmission, one of the most significant innovations in the new electoral law, was strongly advocated by INEC during legislative consultations.

However, he cautioned against assuming that every polling unit will upload results instantly, citing persistent connectivity challenges in some areas, including parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

He referenced delays in Kabir Ward in Kuje Area Council caused by poor network coverage and difficult terrain.

Comparing the process to mobile banking, he explained that while a transaction may be initiated instantly, confirmation may be delayed due to network congestion.

Despite these limitations, he reassured Nigerians that the Commission has the capacity for reliable electronic transmission and that its systems will be strengthened ahead of the 2027 polls.

The INEC chairman emphasised that logistics remain the backbone of credible elections, stating that an election’s success depends on timely commencement, peaceful conduct, and transparent result management.

He acknowledged minor logistical lapses recorded in recent FCT elections but said corrective steps are already being implemented.

Nigerians, he observed, increasingly expect near-perfect elections, and INEC is committed to meeting those expectations.

Amupitan further highlighted the strong link between credible elections, national development, investor confidence, and institutional trust.

He stressed that when citizens trust the electoral process and their leaders, the country is better positioned to progress.

Reaffirming his commitment, he declared: “By the grace of God, the 2027 election will be the best Nigerians will have.”

He added that voters are now more informed and demanding, and with the backing of the Electoral Act 2026, INEC is better prepared to deliver the credible elections Nigerians deserve.