Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that the commission will conduct credible elections in 2027, declaring that every valid vote cast will count despite the challenges confronting the nation’s electoral process.
Amupitan gave the assurance on Friday during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State.
The INEC chairman, who led a delegation comprising National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, directors and technical aides, described Abdulsalami as a foremost statesman whose leadership laid the foundation for Nigeria’s democratic journey following the country’s return to civilian rule in 1999.
He also commended the former military leader for his role as Chairman of the National Peace Committee, saying the committee’s Peace Accord initiative has continued to promote peaceful elections by encouraging political actors to embrace non-violence.
According to Amupitan, the initiative has become a stabilising force in Nigeria’s political landscape, strengthening public confidence in the country’s democratic process.
“The Commission’s determination under my leadership is to ensure that ordinary Nigerians go out to vote with the confidence that their votes will be duly counted and reflected in the final outcome of elections. That is the core assurance INEC owes every Nigerian voter,” he said.
The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s resolve to protect the integrity of the ballot, insisting that no amount of pressure would derail its commitment to credible, transparent and peaceful elections.
Amupitan also officially unveiled the timetable for the 2027 general elections, announcing that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections have been fixed for February 6, 2027.
Describing the visit as a “pilgrimage of appreciation,” he congratulated Abdulsalami on his recent 84th birthday and acknowledged his enduring contributions to peaceful coexistence, democratic stability and credible elections in Nigeria.
Responding, Abdulsalami urged Nigerians to support INEC in its preparations for the 2027 polls, stressing that peaceful, credible and acceptable elections remain the collective responsibility of all stakeholders.
The former Head of State also called on political parties, candidates and voters to remain committed to peace and democratic values as the country prepares for another electoral cycle.
