INEC Chairman Josiah Amupitan Says: “We Need Trust, Not Just Ballot Papers

Josiah Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has openly acknowledged widespread public distrust in Nigeria’s electoral system, stating that legality alone cannot guarantee credible elections. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement forum, Josiah Amupitan emphasized that for democracy to thrive, elections must not only comply with the law but must also be perceived as legitimate by the electorate. His remarks come amid ongoing debates about electoral transparency, voter confidence, and democratic consolidation in Nigeria.

Josiah Amupitan noted that public skepticism toward elections poses a significant challenge to Nigeria’s democratic growth. According to him, rebuilding trust requires consistent transparency, open communication, and inclusive participation from political parties, civil society groups, and the electorate. He reaffirmed INEC’s willingness to accept constructive criticism, adding that institutional accountability is central to strengthening public confidence in the electoral process.

The INEC chairman further explained that democratic legitimacy goes beyond the declaration of results. He stressed that citizens must believe that their votes truly count and that the system is fair, impartial, and resistant to manipulation. By addressing the issue of trust directly, Josiah Amupitan signaled a renewed commitment to restoring confidence ahead of the Ekiti, Osun, and 2027 general elections.

Josiah Amupitan Warns Against Misinformation, Vote Trading, and Low Voter Turnout

Highlighting key threats to credible elections in Nigeria, Josiah Amupitan warned against the dangers of misinformation, vote trading, and declining voter turnout. He described misinformation as a destabilizing force capable of undermining public faith in democratic institutions. According to him, coordinated efforts are required to combat fake news and ensure accurate information reaches voters before, during, and after elections.

On the issue of vote trading, Josiah Amupitan called for stricter enforcement of electoral laws and stronger collaboration with security agencies. He maintained that vote buying and selling distort the true will of the people and weaken democratic values. The INEC chairman urged political actors to adhere strictly to ethical campaign practices and respect electoral guidelines designed to ensure free and fair polls.

Addressing the challenge of voter apathy, Josiah Amupitan emphasized the importance of sustained voter mobilization and civic education. He observed that declining turnout undermines the representative nature of elections and weakens democratic legitimacy. By encouraging greater citizen participation, he believes Nigeria can reinforce its democratic institutions and promote a more inclusive political culture ahead of 2027.

Josiah Amupitan Highlights Voter Register Cleanup and Technology Testing for 2027

Looking ahead to upcoming elections, Josiah Amupitan outlined several strategic reforms aimed at enhancing electoral credibility. He identified voter register cleanup as a top priority, stressing that an accurate and up-to-date register is fundamental to transparent elections. Efforts are underway, he said, to remove duplicate entries and verify voter data to prevent irregularities.

In addition to data verification, Josiah Amupitan highlighted the importance of rigorous technology testing. He explained that electoral technology must undergo comprehensive evaluation to ensure reliability, efficiency, and public trust. By strengthening technological systems, INEC aims to minimize operational challenges and enhance transparency during vote accreditation, transmission, and collation processes.

Timely and adequate funding was also cited by as critical to achieving credible elections in Ekiti, Osun, and the 2027 general polls. He stressed that financial preparedness enables early planning, logistics coordination, and effective stakeholder engagement. As Nigeria approaches another crucial electoral cycle, the INEC chairman’s reform agenda underscores a broader commitment to restoring trust, strengthening democratic institutions, and delivering elections that are both legally sound and widely accepted by the public.