2027 Election: INEC Chairman Amupitan Breaks Silence On Alleged Preferred Candidate

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has reaffirmed the commission’s neutrality ahead of the 2027 general election, stating that the electoral body has no preferred candidate or political party.

Amupitan made the statement during a visit to the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, as part of INEC’s stakeholder engagement and preparations for its zonal interactive meeting and readiness assessment for the 2027 elections.

The INEC chairman described traditional institutions as important stakeholders in the electoral process because of their influence and grassroots reach. He said public trust remained essential to the success of Nigeria’s democratic process.

According to Amupitan, INEC has commenced preparations early because of the size and complexity of conducting elections across the country. He said the commission was moving away from last-minute preparations by testing, auditing and strengthening its operational systems ahead of the polls.

He assured the Emir that the commission would remain committed to neutrality, fairness and transparency throughout the electoral process.

“We have no candidates, we have no political party, we have no interest other than the sovereign will of the people of Nigeria,” Amupitan said.

He also appealed to traditional rulers to use their influence to discourage political violence and hate-driven campaigns. Amupitan urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to approach the elections peacefully, stressing that elections should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.

The INEC chairman further encouraged eligible Nigerians to participate actively in the electoral process, including the collection of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), noting that an informed and engaged electorate was important to the democratic process.

Responding, the Emir of Zazzau commended Amupitan for engaging traditional institutions and providing updates on the commission’s preparations for the 2027 election.

Bamalli urged INEC to ensure that sensitive election materials and equipment were delivered to polling locations on time. He also called for thorough testing of electoral devices before deployment.

The Emir further emphasised the importance of adequate security, timely dissemination of information and prompt announcement of results in strengthening public confidence in the electoral process.

He also appealed to political parties and their supporters to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid hate speech or actions capable of threatening peace and national unity.