2027 an opportunity to re-write history of elections — INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission, known as INEC, asserts that its objective of holding elections that are free, fair, and credible, to set a standard in Africa, must be fulfilled by the year 2027.

On Friday, in Lagos, Prof. Joash Amupitan, the commission's Chairman, made this statement while presenting his opening remarks at the 2026 Induction and Strategic Retreat that was designed for the leadership and senior personnel of the commission.

As reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, this induction and retreat were attended by Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners, as well as administrative secretaries, directors, and senior management from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

He stated that the commission has a unique chance to reshape the narrative of elections in Nigeria and establish a new standard for election management across Africa.

Amupitan mentioned, “The attention of more than 200 million Nigerians and the entire continent is focused on us.

“I urge you to prepare yourselves. The tasks ahead will be challenging, the hours will be extended, and the examination will be rigorous.

“We are presented with a remarkable chance to change the course of Nigeria’s electoral history. Our mission is explicit: The General Election of 2027 must be both free and fair, marking a pivotal moment in the history of elections in Nigeria.

“Yet, we must strive for even greater achievements. I want us to create an institution that garners global recognition.

“Let it be acknowledged that during our tenure, INEC emerged as the foremost Election Management Body in Africa — a symbol of integrity, a paradigm of technological effectiveness, and a stronghold of democratic principles.”

In his view, the elections in 2027 need to be guided by technology, characterized by transparency, and free from any criticism.

He continued, “It needs to set a continental benchmark, serving as a demonstration that INEC is capable of managing an election that is world-class, technologically advanced, and impeccably transparent.

“Our mission, which we must pursue diligently, rests on five essential pillars.

“We are committed to conducting elections devoid of any form of external interference; equitable for all candidates and political parties; regarded as credible by the international community; transparent throughout all processes, from polling locations to result aggregation; and inclusive of all Nigerians, regardless of their physical capabilities or geographical location.”

He pointed out that, in fulfilling this mission, INEC must be aware that the year 2027 will be characterized by a new generation of Nigerians — millions of young individuals who will be casting their votes for the first time.

Amupitan noted that these young individuals are digital natives who expect real-time transparency and have little tolerance for lack of clarity.

Amupitan elaborated, “It is our responsibility to demonstrate to these technologically adept and often doubtful young voters that INEC can be relied upon.

“By making our systems inclusive and ensuring our technology is faultless, we are not merely overseeing an election; we are fostering the enduring commitment of Nigeria’s forthcoming generations to the principles of the vote.” As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Amupitan affirmed his strong dedication to the Legal Framework governing Elections.

Vanguard News