The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised fresh security concerns ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling for stronger collaboration with security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
INEC Chairman, Joash Ojo Amupitan, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, in Abuja, where he stressed that security remains central to every stage of the electoral process, describing it as the “first mile and last mile” of elections.
Amupitan warned that early political activities, including party congresses and conventions, as well as Nigeria’s history of electoral malpractice, vote buying, and violence, could pose serious risks to the conduct of the 2027 polls if not properly addressed. He also disclosed that preparations have begun for the elections, scheduled for January 16, 2027, for national elections and February 6, 2027, for governorship polls.
In response, the police leadership assured INEC of full preparedness to secure the electoral process, noting that intelligence gathering, threat assessments, and mapping of flashpoints have already commenced nationwide. The police also pledged neutrality, professionalism, and strict enforcement of electoral laws throughout the process.
Both institutions agreed on the need for enhanced intelligence sharing, inter-agency coordination, and proactive security measures through platforms such as the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), which was described as central to ensuring peaceful elections and protecting voters, officials, and electoral materials.
