ABUJA — Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has assured Nigerians that the 2027 general elections will surpass previous polls in credibility, transparency and efficiency, anchored on far-reaching reforms contained in the Electoral Act 2026.
Amupitan gave the assurance while speaking 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 electoral law as a major milestone aimed at rebuilding public confidence in the electoral process and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
The Electoral Act 2026, signed into law on February 18, emerged from a three-year consultative process involving the National Assembly, INEC and civil society organisations. The INEC chairman commended advocacy groups for their role in educating citizens on the law, stressing that active civic participation remains vital to democratic consolidation.
Describing elections as the heartbeat of democracy, Amupitan warned that voter ignorance poses a serious threat to national security. He echoed Abraham Lincoln’s assertion that the ballot is more powerful than the bullet, underscoring the need for an informed electorate.
Addressing past setbacks
Responding to concerns over the technical hitches that affected results transmission during the 2023 presidential election, Amupitan said INEC had taken lessons from the experience and implemented corrective measures.
According to him, while the technology performed well during off-cycle governorship elections, it was not sufficiently stress-tested for nationwide deployment in 2023. He assured that comprehensive testing would be carried out ahead of 2027 to guarantee smooth inter-state transmission of results.
He expressed confidence that the glitches encountered previously have been addressed and will not recur.
Electronic transmission, logistics
Amupitan identified strengthened provisions for electronic transmission of results as one of the most significant gains of the new law, noting that INEC consistently pushed for mandatory electronic transmission during legislative engagements.
However, he cautioned against expectations of instant, real-time uploads in all circumstances, citing challenges such as poor network coverage and difficult terrain, even within the Federal Capital Territory. He recalled delays experienced in parts of Kuje Area Council, explaining that result transmission, like electronic banking, may be initiated instantly but completed later due to network limitations.
Despite these realities, he maintained that INEC has the capacity to transmit results electronically and will further enhance its systems ahead of the 2027 polls.
Logistics as backbone of credibility
The INEC chairman stressed that effective logistics remain central to credible elections, insisting that the quality of any election is largely determined by its logistical framework.
He outlined three critical benchmarks for success: prompt commencement of polls, peaceful conduct, and transparent management of results. While admitting to minor logistical challenges in recent elections within the FCT, he said steps are already being taken to address them.
According to him, while Nigerians desire a flawless electoral process, INEC is committed to delivering the best possible outcome, even as perfection remains an ongoing pursuit.
Elections and national development
Amupitan further linked credible elections to national development, investor confidence and institutional stability, arguing that public trust in the electoral process directly impacts Nigeria’s progress.
He reaffirmed his commitment to delivering improved elections, expressing optimism that the 2027 general elections would mark a high point in the nation’s democratic journey.
He added that Nigerian voters are now more enlightened and demanding, and that the Electoral Act 2026 provides a stronger legal framework to meet these rising expectations.
