INEC Is Completely Neutral, Has No Candidates or Parties: Amupitan

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has reiterated the commission’s commitment to neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that INEC has no preferred candidate or political party.

Amupitan made the declaration during a visit to the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, as part of INEC’s ongoing stakeholder engagements and preparations for the 2027 polls.

The visit was also linked to the commission’s planned interactive session with staff and its assessment of electoral readiness at the zonal level.

The INEC chairman was accompanied by National Commissioners, the Acting Director-General of the Electoral Institute, his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Technical Assistant, Chief of Staff, Special Aides and other senior officials.

Amupitan identified traditional rulers as key stakeholders in the electoral process, noting their significant influence and extensive reach within local communities.

He said elections remained a critical part of the social contract between citizens and those elected to serve in public office, adding that public confidence was vital to sustaining democracy.

According to him, INEC began preparations well ahead of the 2027 elections because of the scale and logistical demands involved in conducting nationwide polls.

He said the commission had abandoned the practice of waiting until the last minute, instead focusing on early testing, auditing and strengthening of its systems and operations.

Amupitan also assured the Emir of INEC’s determination to uphold neutrality, fairness and transparency throughout the electoral process.

“We have no candidates, we have no political party, we have no interest other than the sovereign will of the people of Nigeria,” he said.

The INEC chairman further pledged that the commission would sustain consultations with traditional institutions and other stakeholders as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.