INEC Chair Meets Kogi Traditional Rulers to Build Support for 2027 Polls
Professor Amupitan engaged Kogi's 21 local government chiefs in Lokoja, seeking their backing to ensure credible elections and counter voter apathy ahead of 2027.
Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, journeyed to his home state of Kogi on Thursday. He convened with traditional chiefs representing all 21 local government areas at a Lokoja hotel to request their assistance in backing the 2027 general elections.
These rulers were asked to leverage their influence within communities to foster transparent, peaceful electoral conduct. The INEC chief reaffirmed that polling will proceed as originally timed in 2027, dismissing speculation about postponement.
He pledged that the commission would oversee elections described as visible, verifiable, credible, free and fair, fulfilling its constitutional mandate. According to Professor Amupitan, traditional institutions wield considerable influence over citizens and remain essential for combating voter apathy alongside electoral violence.
This Kogi engagement served as part of a comprehensive review tour covering the North-Central geopolitical region. The assessment aimed to gauge preparedness among INEC's workforce and material resources.
Professor Amupitan emphasized removing bureaucratic obstacles that might impede efficient electoral administration. During his leadership, INEC had conducted successful ballots in Anambra, Ekiti, Osun and the Federal Capital Territory.
Voter apathy emerged as a major concern flagged by the INEC chairman ahead of 2027. He directed remarks toward youth, urging them to reject participation in electoral violence.
The gathering underscored INEC's commitment to partnering with community leadership in order to raise participation levels and safeguard electoral integrity.
