INEC Swears in New Abia REC, Addresses 2026 Poll Issues

On February 25, 2026, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash O.

Amupitan, swore in Dr. Chukwu Chukwuemeka Joseph as the new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Abia State.

During the meeting, Prof. Amupitan discussed the necessity of revising the timetable for the 2027 general elections in light of the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026.

He highlighted that the notice of election initially issued on February 13, 2026, was based on the previous Electoral Act 2022, which required adjustments following the passage of the new law. The Chairman stressed the importance of voter education and the need for the Resident Electoral Commission to enhance voter awareness and logistics ahead of the elections.

He also addressed the need for accountability and effective supervision of electoral personnel and materials. The session coincided with a courtesy visit from the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), led by its National Chairman, Mamman Nda Eri, who expressed optimism for collaboration with INEC.