The Independent National Electoral Commission has appealed to the National Peace Committee (NPC) and other critical stakeholders to intensify efforts to rebuild public trust and strengthen peaceful participation in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupita, SAN, made the appeal on Monday at the stakeholder briefing and presentation of the Annotated Peace Accord organised by the NPC at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.
The event brought together leaders of political parties, heads of security agencies, and civil society organizations, underscoring broad-based commitment to peaceful and credible elections. Former Head of State and Chairman of the Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar was represented at the event by the Convener of the Peace Committee, Most Revd. (Dr.) Mathew Hassan Kukah.
In his remarks, Prof. Amupita underscored the urgency of restoring confidence in the electoral system, describing the prevailing trust deficit as a major concern for the Commission.
“So for us, we appeal to the National Peace Committee to help us in the area of building trust. The trust deficit is such that anywhere you go, it’s palpable. If voters will not participate, then whoever emerges… it is also in our own interest that everybody continues to participate. We’ll get it right one day,” he said.
He noted that the virtually all the members of the Commission, except for those who were out of town, as well as relevant directors and other senior management staff of INEC were at the engagement, signalling the seriousness with which the Commission treats issues concerning elections and democratic consolidation.
The INEC Chairman described Nigeria’s electoral landscape as diverse, complex and highly competitive, stressing that democratic growth must be anchored not only on legality but also legitimacy.
“Let the process be so transparent that whoever emerges will not only have legality but legitimacy,” he stated, adding that the Commission remains open to scrutiny and constructive criticism. “Constitutionally, INEC is the custodian of Nigerian democracy and elections. Whatever comments are made, we don’t get angry. We take them, process them and see how we can improve.”
Prof. Amupita emphasised that while INEC continues to refine its processes, the responsibility of credible elections cannot rest on the Commission alone. He called on political parties to strengthen voter mobilisation and internal discipline, noting that sustained civic engagement is vital to reversing declining turnout.
He expressed concern about low voter turnout in recent elections, noting that broad-based confidence in the system is essential for democratic legitimacy.
The Chairman also highlighted steps taken by the Commission to improve results management and address public concerns around transparency. Without disclosing operational details, he stated that additional safeguards had been introduced to ensure consistency and accuracy in results handling, adding that these measures were tested in recent elections.
On misinformation, Prof. Amupita warned that the spread of false narratives during elections undermines public confidence and can inflame tensions. He disclosed that the Commission works closely with security agencies and relevant institutions to counter disinformation and ensure factual reporting of electoral processes.
Addressing the issue of electoral offences, particularly vote trading, the INEC Chairman reiterated that such practices remain criminal under Nigerian law and must be dealt with decisively. He urged law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations promptly and pursue prosecution where necessary.
The Commission, he said, is also prioritising the sanitisation of the voter register, acknowledging concerns about duplications and outdated records. According to him, ensuring an authentic and credible register remains a foundational element of credible elections.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, Prof. Amupita described them as critical milestones on the road to 2027.
He disclosed that INEC is considering additional technology testing, including mock exercises in selected polling units, to further strengthen operational preparedness.
He also appealed for the timely release of election funds in accordance with the amended legal provisions, stressing that early access to resources is crucial for procurement, logistics and overall planning.
In his welcome address delivered on his behalf, General Abdulsalami reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to providing a neutral platform for dialogue, mediation and confidence-building. He noted that since 2015, the Peace Accord has served as a stabilising instrument in Nigeria’s electoral process.
He described the Annotated Peace Accord as a strengthened framework designed to provide clarity, guidance and preventive engagement among stakeholders.
“The responsibility of safeguarding our democracy rests with all of us,” he stated, calling for sustained collaboration, restraint and responsible conduct from political actors, institutions and citizens alike.
