INEC, ICPC train staff in corruption-free 2027 elections

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have launched a joint training program to foster integrity and prevent corruption in elections. The two-day workshop, themed “Corruption-Free Election: Integrity Matters,” commenced Monday at INEC headquarters in Abuja.

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The importance of integrity in election management, noting that INEC, as the nation’s electoral umpire, had a duty to lead conversations that shape national values because elections remain the bedrock of democracy.

The initiative brings together electoral officers and anti-corruption experts to enhance transparency in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election. INEC National Commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, stressed the critical role of integrity in election management, stating that INEC must lead conversations shaping national values as elections are the bedrock of democracy.

Agamuche-Mbu warned that compromised elections weaken public confidence in democratic institutions, leading to far-reaching consequences for national development and governance. She commended the ICPC for facilitating the workshop, which aims to strengthen electoral personnel capacity, share best practices, and develop practical recommendations.

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ICPC for facilitating the workshop, describing it as “an initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of electoral personnel, sharing best practices and developing practical recommendations to guide officials during elections”.

ICPC Chairman Musa Adamu (SAN), represented by Director of Legal Services Mr. Henry Emore, identified corruption as a major obstacle to development. He noted that electoral processes lacking integrity incur additional costs for governments through supplementary elections and security measures, and burden anti-corruption agencies with increased petitions and litigation.

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Corruption is one of the greatest obstacles to development in the 21st century.