2027: Your votes will count, INEC chair assures Nigerians

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria has reassured citizens that their votes will be counted in the upcoming 2027 General Election. This assurance came from INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan during a courtesy visit to former Head of State General Abdulsalam Abubakar in Minna, Niger State.

Prof. Amupitan described General Abubakar as a "father of democracy" in Nigeria and a pillar of support for INEC. He commended Abubakar's role as chairman of the National Peace Committee, highlighting its initiative for peace accords as a moralizing influence that provides a platform for political actors to commit to non-violence, thereby strengthening the sovereignty of the Nigerian people's will.

The visit was framed as a pilgrimage of appreciation for Abubakar's contributions to peaceful coexistence, elections, and democratic stability. Prof. Amupitan reiterated INEC's commitment to ensuring the will of the Nigerian people prevails in elections, regardless of pressures. He stressed that ordinary Nigerians should feel confident their votes would be counted and reflected in the outcomes.

Responding, General Abubakar acknowledged the demanding nature of the INEC chairmanship and called on Nigerians to support the commission and its leadership. He emphasized that the success of Nigeria's democracy hinges on the cooperation and confidence extended to INEC by both citizens and political stakeholders. Abubakar expressed confidence in Prof. Amupitan's leadership, urging him to remain firm and impartial.