Restore Nigerians’ Trust Before 2027” – INEC Chair Amupitan Charges Staff

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has called on staff of the commission to brace up for the task of conducting free, fair, and credible elections, stressing that only credible performance can help address the growing trust deficit surrounding the electoral body.

Amupitan stated that the commission is committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic system and rebuilding public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He made the remarks on Friday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, while addressing INEC staff at the commission’s secretariat after inspecting the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in some local government areas.

According to him, the commission also plans to collaborate with the National Population Commission and other relevant agencies to identify Nigerians who have reached voting age and ensure they are properly registered.

The INEC chairman noted that the actions of every staff member would play a significant role in shaping the credibility of the 2027 elections.

“As we approach 2027, we must see ourselves as partners in serving the nation and deepening democracy. Although INEC currently faces a trust deficit, whatever policies or directives are implemented in Abuja must be effectively carried out at all levels,” he said.

He urged staff members to discharge their duties with integrity, professionalism, and respect.

“We must work collectively to rebuild public confidence. I am aware that state congresses are ongoing and some of you may be involved. Whatever responsibility you are given, handle it with honesty and the highest level of courtesy,” Amupitan added.

He maintained that Nigerians deserve an electoral process that genuinely reflects the will of the people.

“What you do today will shape the outcome of the 2027 elections. If we want a better future, we must build it through credible actions. Nigerians deserve elections that are free, fair, and credible, and their expectations must be met.

“Our goal is to restore Nigerians’ faith in INEC so that whoever emerges victorious will truly represent the choice of the people,” he said.

Amupitan further revealed that the commission intends to carry out a voters’ register revalidation exercise to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the electoral database.

He explained that the exercise would help eliminate the names of deceased individuals and others who are no longer eligible to vote.

“The voters’ register must be properly cleaned and updated,” he said.

The chairman also encouraged INEC staff to play active roles in educating the public about the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing that the responsibility should not rest solely on the commission’s Voter Education and Publicity Department.

“Mobilise and encourage citizens to come out and register, while reassuring them that their votes will count,” he urged.

In his response, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Akwa Ibom State, Obo Effanga, expressed appreciation to the chairman for visiting the state and engaging directly with staff at the registration centres.

He assured the INEC leadership that the state office would remain committed to fulfilling the commission’s mandate in preparation for the 2027 elections.

During the inspection, Amupitan visited several Continuous Voter Registration centres in Ikot Ekpene and Uyo, where officials and prospective registrants raised concerns about network interruptions and login difficulties affecting the process.

He, however, assured them that the technical challenges would be resolved promptly.

The chairman also commended the impressive turnout of young people at the centres and called for intensified voter education efforts across the state to further boost participation in the registration exercise.