By Nkechi Eze
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on the National Peace Committee (NPC) and other key stakeholders to intensify efforts to rebuild public trust and guarantee peaceful, credible participation in the build-up to the 2027 General Election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupita, SAN, made the appeal at the Stakeholder Briefing and Presentation of the Annotated Peace Accord organised by the National Peace Committee at the Abuja Continental Hotel in Abuja.
The high-level engagement brought together leaders of political parties, heads of security agencies and civil society organisations, reflecting broad-based commitment to peaceful and credible elections. Former Head of State and Chairman of the Committee, Abdulsalami Abubakar, was represented by the Convener of the Peace Committee, Mathew Hassan Kukah.
In his remarks, Prof. Amupita described the prevailing trust deficit in the electoral system as palpable and deeply concerning, warning that declining voter confidence could undermine democratic legitimacy.
“So for us, we appeal to the National Peace Committee to help us in the area of building trust. The trust deficit is such that anywhere you go, it’s palpable. 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.
He noted that virtually all members of the Commission—except those out of town—alongside relevant directors and senior management staff, were present at the engagement, underscoring the seriousness with which INEC approaches issues of electoral integrity and democratic consolidation.
Describing Nigeria’s electoral landscape as diverse, complex and highly competitive, the INEC Chairman stressed that democratic growth must rest not only on legality but also on legitimacy.
“Let the process be so transparent that whoever emerges will not only have legality but legitimacy,” he stated, adding that the Commission remains open to scrutiny and constructive criticism. “Constitutionally, INEC is the custodian of Nigerian democracy and elections. Whatever comments are made, we don’t get angry. We take them, process them and see how we can improve.”
While affirming that INEC continues to refine its processes, Prof. Amupita maintained that credible elections cannot rest on the Commission alone. He urged political parties to strengthen voter mobilisation and enforce internal discipline, stressing that sustained civic engagement is essential to reversing low voter turnout recorded in recent elections.
On transparency and results management, he disclosed that additional safeguards have been introduced to ensure consistency and accuracy in handling election results. Though he did not reveal operational specifics, he noted that the measures have already been tested in recent elections.
Addressing misinformation, the INEC Chairman warned that false narratives during electoral cycles erode public confidence and inflame tensions. He said the Commission works closely with security agencies and other relevant institutions to counter disinformation and ensure factual reporting of electoral processes.
On electoral offences, particularly vote trading, Prof. Amupita reiterated that such practices remain criminal under Nigerian law and must be dealt with decisively. He urged law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations promptly and prosecute offenders where necessary.
He further disclosed that the Commission is prioritising the sanitisation of the voter register, acknowledging public concerns over duplications and outdated records. Ensuring an authentic and credible register, he said, remains foundational to credible elections.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, the INEC Chairman described them as critical milestones on the road to 2027. He revealed that the Commission is considering additional technology testing, including mock exercises in selected polling units, to strengthen operational preparedness.
Prof. Amupita also appealed for the timely release of election funds in line with amended legal provisions, stressing that early access to resources is vital for procurement, logistics and comprehensive planning.
In a welcome address delivered on his behalf, General Abdulsalami reaffirmed the Peace Committee’s commitment to providing a neutral platform for dialogue, mediation and confidence-building. He noted that since 2015, the Peace Accord has served as a stabilising instrument in Nigeria’s electoral process.
He described the Annotated Peace Accord as a strengthened framework designed to offer clarity, guidance and preventive engagement among stakeholders.
“The responsibility of safeguarding our democracy rests with all of us,” he said, calling for sustained collaboration, restraint and responsible conduct from political actors, institutions and citizens.
Participation at the stakeholder briefing formed part of Prof. Amupita’s ongoing engagements to deepen cooperation among electoral stakeholders, reinforce peaceful conduct and strengthen public confidence as preparations gradually intensify toward the 2027 General Election.
