By Our Reporter
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stepped up preparations for the 2027 general elections, targeting 103 million voters and emphasising the need to counter fake news while safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, INEC Chairman stated this during a readiness assessment visit to Enugu State, where he engaged commission staff on preparations for the forthcoming elections.
Amupitan, accompanied by national commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) from across the South-East and other senior officials, stressed the importance of neutrality, professionalism and strict compliance with the Electoral Act and the commission’s code of conduct.
He cautioned staff against conduct capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process, urging them to resist political pressure, financial inducements and intimidation.
The chairman said that although INEC had recorded progress in recent off-cycle elections, the scale of the 2027 general elections required more rigorous planning, stronger coordination and strict adherence to established procedures.
He disclosed that the commission had completed nine of the 14 major statutory milestones in its revised timetable and schedule of activities, adding that the pace of implementation must be sustained as election day approaches.
Amupitan also assured that INEC would continue collaborating with security agencies to protect election personnel, technological assets, electoral materials and voters. He said measures would be taken to ensure polling units remained accessible despite local security challenges.
Earlier, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu State, Dr Chukwuemeka J. Chukwu, said the assessment exercise offered an opportunity to examine operational realities, identify gaps, share experiences and develop practical solutions ahead of the elections.
Chukwu urged participants to undertake an honest assessment of their preparedness and engage in constructive problem-solving. He also assured the commission’s leadership of Enugu State’s commitment to working with the national headquarters, other states, security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
Similarly, INEC Director of Planning and Monitoring, Helen Ajayi, said the exercise was designed to evaluate states’ readiness and identify operational challenges before the polls. She added that the sessions would reinforce staff compliance with the commission’s code of conduct.
Directors and representatives from the Voter Education and Publicity, Voter Registry, Information and Communication Technology, Human Resources, and Election and Operations departments also presented updates on their respective preparations for the 2027 elections.
The commission’s assessment exercise forms part of its broader efforts to strengthen operational readiness, promote public confidence and ensure credible elections in 2027.
