INEC rules out shifting 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to holding the 2027 general elections as per schedule, dismissing claims of possible postponement. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, emphasized that the electoral timetable is fixed and preparations are progressing as planned. The commission will release the final voters’ register on December 15, following the completion of its verification and correction process.

During a meeting with INEC staff and Resident Electoral Commissioners from South-South states, Amupitan reassured that the commission is on track for a peaceful, transparent, and credible election. He highlighted that Rivers State, with the highest number of registered voters (3,736,434), would receive special attention due to its strategic electoral significance.

Amupitan emphasized that INEC is committed to ensuring that no voter is disenfranchised due to operational failures, particularly in states with large voter populations.

The chairman disclosed that the commission has received over 5,000 requests for corrections to the preliminary voters’ register, including name changes and date of birth corrections, as well as more than 600 objections, which are being processed. Amupitan confidently stated that INEC can conduct successful elections, drawing from the lessons learned during the recent Osun State governorship elections, which recorded the highest voter turnout and were deemed credible.

Amupitan also addressed security concerns, stating that INEC is collaborating with security agencies to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral personnel, and election materials. He stressed that Nigerians should not be discouraged from collecting their Permanent Voter Cards due to security measures, as the commission aims for a calm electoral environment nationwide.

He dismissed fears that artificial intelligence and algorithms could influence the election outcome, emphasizing that the people of Nigeria will decide the results.