The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians that every valid vote will count in the 2027 general elections, reaffirming its commitment to conducting free, fair and credible polls.
The assurance was given by INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State.
Leading a delegation of National Commissioners, directors and other senior officials of the commission, Amupitan described Abdulsalami as one of the key figures in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that his transition to civilian rule in 1999 laid the foundation for the country’s current democratic system.
He also praised the former Head of State’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying its peace accord initiative has encouraged political actors to embrace non-violence and peaceful elections over the years.
“Regardless of the pressures confronting the commission, INEC remains committed to ensuring that the will of the Nigerian people, as expressed at the election, will prevail,” Amupitan said.
He assured Nigerians that the commission would work to ensure voters have confidence that their ballots would be counted and accurately reflected in election results.
“Our determination is to see ordinary Nigerians go out and vote, confident that their votes will be duly counted and reflected in the outcome of elections,” he added.
Responding, General Abdulsalami Abubakar described the office of the INEC chairman as one of the most challenging positions in the country due to the high expectations of political stakeholders.
He urged Nigerians to support the electoral body, stressing that the success of the country’s democracy depends on public trust and cooperation.
The former Head of State also expressed confidence in Amupitan’s leadership and encouraged him to remain impartial while carrying out his responsibilities.
Earlier, the INEC chairman met with staff of the commission’s Niger State office, where he reiterated the importance of professionalism and integrity in delivering credible elections.
He described electoral officers as the commission’s frontline representatives and said public confidence in the electoral process largely depends on their conduct.
Amupitan also disclosed that INEC is reviewing staff welfare packages, noting that improving employees’ working conditions remains one of his priorities.
