INEC Chair Amupitan Warns Insecurity Could Undermine 2027 Elections

Prof. Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has warned that rising insecurity in Nigeria threatens the credibility of the 2027 general elections. He made the remarks on Wednesday during a meeting with Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu in Abuja. Amupitan cited persistent violence, electoral malpractice and threats to voters and officials as key risks to free and fair elections. He stressed the need for comprehensive security planning, including early identification of flashpoints and preventive strategies.

The INEC chairman said the presidential election on January 16, 2027, and the governorship and state assembly polls on February 6, 2027, require strong collaboration between INEC and security agencies. He highlighted ongoing political activities, including party congresses and primaries under the Electoral Act 2026, as moments requiring heightened security. Amupitan also pointed to upcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states and pending by-elections as critical tests for Nigeria's democracy.

He called for special attention to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and persons with disabilities, stating they must not be disenfranchised. "It is their right to also vote," Amupitan said, urging the police to ensure inclusive voting conditions. In response, IGP Tunji Disu assured INEC of the police's readiness to combat electoral threats. He said intelligence-led policing and preventive measures would be deployed nationwide. Disu confirmed ongoing threat assessments and intelligence mapping with other agencies. "We will enforce electoral laws firmly and professionally," he said, warning against vote-buying, ballot snatching and voter intimidation.

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