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 on Friday during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State.
The INEC chairman led a delegation comprising National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, directors and his technical aides.
Describing Abdulsalami as the “father of democracy in Nigeria,” Amupitan said the former military leader’s transition to civilian rule in 1999 marked a defining moment in the country’s democratic history.
He also praised Abdulsalami’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying its Peace Accord initiative has encouraged political actors to embrace non-violence and strengthened Nigeria’s democratic process.
According to Amupitan, the visit was a “pilgrimage of appreciation” to recognise Abdulsalami’s contributions to peaceful coexistence, credible elections and democratic stability. He also congratulated the elder statesman on his recent 84th birthday.
The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting transparent elections despite the challenges confronting it.
“The Commission’s determination under my leadership was to see ordinary Nigerians go out and vote, confident that their votes would be duly counted and reflected in the outcome of elections,” he said.
Amupitan also confirmed that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
In his response, Abdulsalami urged Nigerians to support INEC to ensure peaceful, credible and successful elections in 2027.
