INEC Chairman Warns Staff Against Political Pressure Ahead of Poll

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has warned staff of the commission against political pressure, financial inducements and intimidation ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Amupitan gave the warning during the commission’s readiness assessment visit to Enugu State, where he engaged with staff alongside National Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners from the South-East Zone and other senior officials.

The INEC chairman stressed the need for neutrality, professionalism and strict adherence to the Electoral Act and the commission’s code of conduct, warning that any action capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process must be avoided.

He said although the commission had recorded progress in recent off-cycle elections, the scale of the forthcoming general election required more rigorous planning, stronger coordination and strict compliance with established procedures.

According to Amupitan, INEC has completed nine of the 14 major statutory milestones contained in its revised timetable and schedule of activities.

He urged staff to sustain the pace of implementation as the election approaches, stressing that every decision must be guided by the law rather than personal interests or political considerations.

The chairman also said the commission would continue to work with security agencies to protect election personnel, technological assets, electoral materials and voters.

He added that INEC would ensure polling units remain accessible despite security challenges in some parts of the country.

Earlier, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu State, Dr. Chukwuemeka J. Chukwu, said the assessment visit provided an opportunity to examine operational realities, identify gaps, share experiences and develop practical solutions ahead of the general election.