INEC Chairman Stresses Credible Elections as Foundation for National Security
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has declared that peaceful and transparent elections are indispensable for Nigeria to achieve lasting stability and democratic consolidation. He underscored the vital link between electoral integrity and national security, highlighting this as a cornerstone for the nation's future.
Timely Discussion with Security Alumni
Prof. Amupitan made these remarks during a meeting at the commission's headquarters in Abuja with a delegation from the alumni association of the National Institute for Security Studies (ANNISS), led by its President, Mike Ejiofor. The visit was in preparation for ANNISS's Second Annual Lecture, themed "Credible Elections and National Security in Nigeria."
Welcoming the delegation, the INEC Chairman described the theme as both timely and profoundly significant, noting that the integrity of electoral processes has direct and far-reaching implications for national peace and security. He commended ANNISS for its pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria's security architecture through the training of senior officers across various sectors, including the armed forces, intelligence agencies, and regulatory bodies.
Call for Enhanced Institutional Collaboration
In his earlier remarks, Mike Ejiofor emphasized the necessity for closer institutional engagement between the electoral body and security professionals, especially as preparations gradually intensify towards the 2027 General Election. Ejiofor congratulated Prof. Amupitan on his appointment, describing the responsibility of overseeing elections in a country of over 200 million people as a weighty national assignment.
He disclosed that the forthcoming annual lecture would convene a diverse group of security experts, civil society actors, and electoral stakeholders to explore practical measures aimed at bolstering electoral integrity and ensuring a secure democratic process.
Osun REC Urges Vigilance on Voter Registration
In a related development, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Mutiu Agboke, has called on political parties to promptly report any irregularities or concerns regarding the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to the commission. Agboke stated that this proactive approach is essential to ensure that necessary corrective actions can be taken where required.
The Osun INEC boss made this known while addressing journalists during a monitoring visit to various registration areas on Monday. The visit was aimed at assessing the conduct of the exercise and interacting with political party agents. Agboke led the INEC management team in the state during this inspection.
The monitoring tour took the INEC team to several registration points, including:
- Ilare Methodist Primary School in Ward 7, Obokun Local Government Area
- Saint Andrew Primary School, Ada 1 Ward 7, Boripe Local Government Area
- Holy Michael Primary School, Olonde, Ikirun, Ward 8, Ifelodun Local Government Area
Agboke explained that the inspection was designed to ensure the process was proceeding in an orderly and efficient manner. He noted that the commission decided to visit the field to obtain direct feedback from officials and representatives of political parties participating in the registration process, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability.
Clarifications on Campaigns and Registration Timeline
Regarding political campaigns, the REC clarified that campaign activities are largely internal matters for political parties, but he added that the commission continues to monitor developments to ensure strict compliance with electoral regulations and guidelines.
Speaking on the duration of the voter registration exercise, Agboke disclosed that the process would continue until close to the next election. He noted that registration would be temporarily halted to allow for the printing of Permanent Voter Cards, ensuring that all eligible voters are adequately prepared for the electoral process.
This comprehensive approach by INEC, from high-level discussions on national security to grassroots monitoring of voter registration, underscores the commission's commitment to fostering a credible and secure electoral environment in Nigeria.
