Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that every valid vote cast in the 2027 general election will count, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to delivering credible and transparent elections.
Amupitan gave the assurance on Friday during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, Abdulsalami Abubakar, at his residence in Minna, Niger State.
Describing Abdulsalami as “the father of democracy in Nigeria”, the INEC chairman said the former military leader’s successful transition to civilian rule in 1999 remains a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey.
He said the electoral commission regards Abdulsalami not only as a respected statesman but also as a dependable pillar of support for INEC.
Amupitan also praised Abdulsalami’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying its peace accord initiative has encouraged political actors to embrace non-violence and contributed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.
He described the visit as “a pilgrimage of appreciation” in recognition of Abdulsalami’s contributions to peaceful coexistence, credible elections and democratic stability.
Despite the challenges facing the commission, Amupitan said INEC remains determined to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
“The commission’s determination under my leadership is 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.
He added that this assurance remains INEC’s core responsibility to the electorate.
The INEC chairman also announced that the presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections will be held on February 6, 2027.
Amupitan further congratulated Abdulsalami on his recent 84th birthday.
In his remarks, Abdulsalami urged Nigerians to support INEC in its efforts to conduct peaceful, free and credible elections ahead of the 2027 general election.
