2027 Polls: INEC Pledges Credible Elections, Says Every Valid Vote Will Count

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan has assured Nigerians that every valid vote cast during the 2027 general election will count, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to delivering free, fair, credible and transparent elections.

Amupitan gave the assurance 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, where he sought the elder statesman’s continued support for efforts aimed at deepening Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 polls.

The INEC chairman described Abdulsalami as a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that his successful transition from military to civilian rule in 1999 laid the foundation for the country’s Fourth Republic.

He also praised the former Head of State’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying its Peace Accord initiative has continued to promote issue-based campaigns, discourage electoral violence and foster peaceful participation by political parties, candidates and their supporters.

According to Amupitan, Abdulsalami’s guidance and interventions have remained invaluable in strengthening electoral stability and democratic governance in the country.

Describing the visit as “a pilgrimage of appreciation,” the INEC chairman said it was intended to honour the elder statesman’s decades of service to Nigeria and his unwavering commitment to peace, national unity and democracy. He also congratulated Abdulsalami on his recent 84th birthday, describing him as an enduring source of inspiration.

Speaking on preparations for the next general election, Amupitan assured Nigerians that the commission would safeguard the integrity of the electoral process despite the logistical and operational challenges associated with nationwide elections.

“Our determination is to ensure that every Nigerian who comes out to vote does so with the confidence that every valid vote will count and be accurately reflected in the final election results,” he said.

He stressed that protecting the sanctity of every valid vote remains one of INEC’s constitutional responsibilities and pledged that the commission would continue implementing reforms to enhance transparency, professionalism and public confidence in the electoral system.

Amupitan also reiterated the commission’s election timetable, announcing that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.

He urged eligible Nigerians to participate actively in the electoral process, stressing that democracy can only flourish when citizens exercise their voting rights with confidence that their choices will be respected.

The INEC chairman further appealed to political parties, candidates, civil society organisations, security agencies, the media and other stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring peaceful, inclusive and credible elections.

Responding, Abdulsalami commended the INEC chairman for the visit and acknowledged the enormous responsibility placed on the electoral commission in delivering credible elections.

He urged Nigerians to support INEC’s preparations for the 2027 polls, noting that credible elections remain the bedrock of democracy and national stability.

The former Head of State also appealed to political parties and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully and place the nation’s interest above partisan considerations, warning that violence and electoral malpractice pose serious threats to democratic development.

As preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum, public expectations remain high for a transparent electoral process, with many Nigerians calling for stronger safeguards to ensure that election outcomes truly reflect the will of the people.