The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says intensive preparations for the 2027 general elections have begun with the nationwide voter revalidation exercise set to clean up the voters’ register and restore public trust in the electoral process.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, disclosed this during a consultative meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Abuja on Wednesday, describing the engagement as a vital step towards collaborative efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking to stakeholders at INEC’s headquarters, Prof. Amupitan, who assumed office in late 2025, highlighted the successful conduct of the Anambra State off-cycle governorship election on November 8, 2025—just 15 days after his appointment.
He said the poll, involving over 2.8 million registered voters, 5,718 polling units, and 16 political parties, was executed with transparency and adherence to legal standards, plus the deployment of sign language interpreters to enhance inclusivity.
The chairman also confirmed that bye-elections arising from the resignation and death of lawmakers will be held on February 21, 2026, in Ahoada East II and Khana II State Constituencies of Rivers State, as well as Kano Municipal and Ungogo State Constituencies of Kano State.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections will take place on the same day, Saturday, February 21, 2026, covering over 1.68 million voters across six area councils.
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He explained that preparations are advanced, with non-sensitive materials delivered, ad hoc staff trained, BVAS devices configured, and sensitive materials slated for arrival a day before polling.
A mock accreditation exercise is scheduled for February 7 in selected units, while 83 domestic and five foreign observers have been accredited.
For the 2027 general elections, Prof. Amupitan assured that the full timetable and schedule will be released in line with the Constitution and Electoral Act 2022.
He expressed worry over delays in amending the Electoral Act and urged CSOs to push the National Assembly for swift action to avoid setbacks.
The chairman called on CSOs to mobilise residents to collect PVCs before the February 10, 2026, FCT deadline, and to champion voter education, peaceful campaigns, and the fight against hate speech, vote-buying, and violence.
Responding, CSO representative Grace Alache Jerry reaffirmed civil society’s support for INEC, pledging observation of the FCT polls and intensified sensitisation. She echoed concerns over Electoral Act amendment delays, warning of potential impacts on 2027 preparations, and stressed collective responsibility for seamless elections.
