By Abuja, Nigeria
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged the National Peace Committee (NPC) and other stakeholders to intensify efforts at rebuilding public confidence and promoting peaceful participation in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, made the call on Monday during a Stakeholder Briefing and presentation of the Annotated Peace Accord organised by the NPC in Abuja.
The event, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, brought together political party leaders, heads of security agencies and civil society representatives, underscoring a shared commitment to peaceful and credible elections. Former Head of State and NPC Chairman, Abdulsalami Abubakar, was represented by the committee’s convener, Matthew Hassan Kukah.
In his address, Amupitan described the prevailing trust deficit in the electoral system as a major concern, stressing that restoring confidence is critical to improving voter turnout and safeguarding democratic legitimacy.
“The trust deficit is palpable across the country. If voters do not participate, it affects the legitimacy of whoever emerges. It is in everyone’s interest to ensure broad participation,” he said.
He noted that commissioners, senior management staff and directors of INEC attended the briefing, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to stakeholder engagement and democratic consolidation.
Describing Nigeria’s electoral environment as complex and highly competitive, the INEC Chairman emphasised that transparency must remain the bedrock of the process. He assured stakeholders that the Commission remains open to constructive criticism and scrutiny to strengthen electoral integrity.
Amupitan called on political parties to enhance internal discipline, boost voter mobilisation and expand civic education efforts to reverse declining voter turnout. He also disclosed that INEC has introduced additional safeguards to improve results management and transparency, adding that the measures have already been tested in recent elections.
On misinformation, he warned that false narratives during election periods could erode public trust and escalate tensions. He said INEC is collaborating with security agencies and relevant institutions to counter disinformation and promote accurate reporting.
Addressing electoral offences, particularly vote trading, Amupitan reiterated that such practices are criminal under Nigerian law and must be prosecuted. He urged law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations promptly and ensure offenders are brought to justice.
The INEC Chairman further highlighted ongoing efforts to sanitise the voter register, acknowledging concerns over duplication and outdated records. He described a credible voter register as fundamental to free and fair elections.
Looking ahead, he identified the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states as key milestones in preparations for 2027. He disclosed that INEC is considering additional technological tests, including mock exercises in selected polling units, to enhance operational readiness.
Amupitan also appealed for the timely release of election funds in line with amended legal provisions, stressing that early funding is essential for procurement, logistics and effective planning.
In a welcome address delivered on his behalf, Abdulsalami reaffirmed the NPC’s commitment to serving as a neutral platform for dialogue, mediation and confidence-building among political actors.
He noted that since 2015, the Peace Accord has contributed to stability in Nigeria’s electoral process. The newly introduced Annotated Peace Accord, he added, provides clearer guidelines and preventive measures to support peaceful elections.
“The responsibility of safeguarding our democracy rests with all of us,” he said, urging political parties, institutions and citizens to act responsibly and prioritise peace.
The stakeholder engagement forms part of INEC’s ongoing consultations aimed at strengthening collaboration, ensuring peaceful elections and deepening public confidence as preparations gradually intensify toward the 2027 General Election.
