INEC's Joash Amupitan Addresses Staff Ahead of 2027 Elections

On September 28, 2026, Professor Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), issued a stern warning to the Commission's staff regarding partisanship, administrative negligence, and compromised ethics as preparations for the 2027 general elections ramp up. This warning was delivered during the North-West zonal interactive meeting held in Kaduna.

Amupitan emphasized that the Commission would strictly enforce its code of conduct, stating that the integrity of INEC is paramount. He highlighted that the conduct of field staff is crucial for maintaining electoral credibility and warned that any display of bias or administrative failure could validate cynicism and deepen voter apathy.

He reminded officials of their oath of loyalty and neutrality as mandated by Section 26 of the Electoral Act 2026. Additionally, he announced that the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) will begin on October 9, 2026, and urged staff to adhere strictly to established procedures without improvisation.