INEC Seeks Traditional Rulers' Support for 2027 Elections

On Tuesday, October 3, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, visited His Royal Majesty Oba Riliwanu Babatunde Osuolale Akiolu at the Iga Idunganran Palace in Lagos. The visit was part of INEC’s South-West Zonal Readiness Assessment and Staff Interactive Session, marking the beginning of a nationwide engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Amupitan informed the Oba that the presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will take place on February 6, 2027. He urged traditional rulers to leverage their influence to enhance voter registration and turnout, and to promote peaceful, issue-based political campaigns.

Amupitan emphasized that while technology is vital for a transparent electoral process, the active participation of citizens is crucial. He also called for a focus on policies over personal attacks in political discourse.

Oba Akiolu welcomed the initiative and expressed confidence in INEC's leadership under Amupitan.