The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), has assured Nigerians that the 2027 general election will be the best in the country’s history, citing lessons learned from the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-cycle polls. Speaking at the Citizens’ Townhall Meeting on the Electoral Act 2026, he acknowledged that while Nigerians desire a perfect election, INEC may not achieve 100 percent perfection but remains committed to continuous improvement.
Amupitan emphasised that democracy thrives on credible elections, describing the ballot as more powerful than the bullet. He highlighted the importance of voter education and civil society collaboration in strengthening electoral transparency. According to him, INEC played a key role in shaping the 2026 Electoral Act, which he described as a product of years of consultation among the National Assembly, civil society groups and the commission.
Addressing concerns about electronic transmission of results, the INEC chairman explained that the major challenge is not outright failure but defining and achieving real-time transmission, especially in areas with weak network coverage. He cited delays experienced in parts of the FCT Area Council elections, particularly in Kuje, where poor connectivity hindered immediate result uploads, though results were eventually transmitted without compromise.
He identified logistics and result management as critical determinants of a successful election, noting that timely commencement of voting, peaceful conduct and proper handling of results are key benchmarks. Amupitan admitted there were human and logistical lapses in previous elections but said the commission is working to address them ahead of 2027, including better testing of election technology such as BVAS before nationwide deployment.
The INEC boss further stressed that increased voter awareness and improved technological preparation would enhance transparency and public trust. He expressed confidence that with reforms under the 2026 Electoral Act and improved operational strategies, the 2027 elections would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic legitimacy and restore greater confidence in the electoral process.
