Ahead of the next major electoral cycle, former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to maintain its independence and guarantee equal treatment for all political parties.
Abubakar made the call when INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, alongside national commissioners and other officials of the commission, paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Minna, Niger State.
The Chairman of the National Peace Committee urged the electoral body to remain committed to conducting elections that are free, fair, credible and transparent, despite the pressure that may come from political actors. He acknowledged the difficult responsibilities attached to leading INEC, noting that the commission often faces criticism whenever election outcomes do not favour certain parties or candidates.
The former leader advised the INEC chairman and his team to remain firm, ignore distractions and uphold their oath of office, stressing that the commission must serve all political parties equally.
Abubakar expressed confidence in the ability of the current INEC leadership to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process, adding that the success of elections depends largely on the credibility of the electoral body. He also revealed that the National Peace Committee would convene a strategic meeting in Abuja on July 29 ahead of the signing of the Peace Accord on July 30 for the Osun governorship election.
According to him, the Osun election would serve as an important preparation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the committee committed to supporting peaceful and credible polls.
Earlier, INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan assured Nigerians that their votes would count in both the Osun governorship election and the 2027 general elections. He said the commission’s visit was aimed at seeking the support and prayers of respected national figures while acknowledging their contributions to peace and democracy.
Amupitan commended Abubakar’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying the Peace Accord initiative has helped promote non-violence and respect for the will of Nigerian voters.
INEC has fixed August 15 for the Osun governorship election, while the Peace Accord signing is scheduled for July 30 in Osogbo. The commission has also announced that the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, followed by governorship and State Assembly elections on February 6, 2027.
