The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that every valid vote will count in the 2027 general elections.
Amupitan gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State, on Friday.
He led a delegation comprising National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, directors and his technical aides.
The INEC chairman described Abdulsalami as the father of Nigeria’s democracy, noting that his successful transition to civilian rule in 1999 remains a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey.
He also described the former Head of State as a pillar of support for the electoral commission and commended his leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying the Peace Accord initiative has continued to encourage political actors to embrace peaceful conduct during elections.
According to Amupitan, the initiative has provided political parties and candidates with a platform to commit themselves to non-violence, thereby strengthening the sovereign will of the Nigerian people.
He further described the visit as a pilgrimage of appreciation in recognition of Abdulsalami’s contributions to peaceful coexistence, credible elections and democratic stability. He also congratulated the former Head of State on his recent 84th birthday.
Amupitan reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting credible elections, stating that under his leadership, INEC would ensure that Nigerians vote with confidence, knowing that every valid vote would be counted and accurately reflected in election results.
He noted that protecting the sanctity of the ballot remains the commission’s foremost responsibility to the electorate.
The INEC chairman also confirmed that the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections have been scheduled for February 6, 2027.
In his remarks, Abdulsalami called on Nigerians to support the Independent National Electoral Commission in its preparations for the 2027 general elections.
NAN