By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reassured Nigerians that their votes will count in forthcoming elections, as former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC) General Abdulsalam Abubakar, rtd, urged citizens to rally support behind the Commission ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The assurance was given by Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), INEC Chairman, during a courtesy visit to General Abubakar at his residence in Minna. Prof. Amupitan led a delegation that included National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, Directors, and Technical Aides.
Describing General Abubakar as the “father of democracy in Nigeria,” Prof. Amupitan said the former Head of State’s transition to civilian rule in 1999 marked a defining moment in the country’s democratic history. He noted that the Commission regards Abubakar not just as a statesman but as a pillar of support for INEC.
The INEC Chairman also commended General Abubakar’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying the Peace Accord initiative had provided political actors a platform to commit to non-violence and strengthened the sovereignty of the will of the Nigerian people. He described the visit as “a pilgrimage of appreciation” for Abubakar’s contributions to peaceful coexistence, peaceful elections, and democratic stability, and congratulated him on his recent 84th birthday.
Prof. Amupitan told the former Head of State that despite pressures facing the Commission, INEC remains committed to ensuring that the will of Nigerians as expressed at the polls prevails.
“Our determination under my leadership is to see ordinary Nigerians go out and vote, confident that their votes would be duly counted and reflected in the outcome of elections,” he said, describing it as “the core assurance INEC owed the electorate.”
He also announced the official dates for the 2027 polls. According to him, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on 16th of January 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will take place on 6th of February 2027
