The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that Nigeria's voter register stands at 103 million. According to INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan, Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna states have recorded the highest number of voters. This disclosure was made during a world press conference and National Stakeholders meeting in Abuja. The meeting was part of INEC's preparations for the 2027 general election.
Professor Amupitan stated that INEC had concluded 9 stages out of 14 on the revised guidelines. The commission is currently working on the remaining stages ahead of the 2027 general election. One Hundred Days to the general election, INEC has identified difficult terrains and is putting adequate measures in place. These measures aim to ensure that citizens in riverine areas participate in the election.
INEC is engaging Transport Unions to review their preparations for the polls. The commission wants to ensure that all Nigerians have access to voting. Professor Amupitan also disclosed that INEC would work with anti-graft agencies. This collaboration aims to track illicit spending, vote buying, and other inducements. Anyone caught engaging in such activities will be prosecuted according to the law.
The commission is committed to ensuring inclusivity, particularly for people with disabilities. INEC will engage stakeholders to ensure that people with disabilities participate in all processes leading to the 2027 general election. Professor Amupitan stated that INEC would engage members of the National Youth Service Corps and senior civil servants. These groups will provide support for efficient service delivery during the election.
INEC will carry out town hall meetings across the thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These meetings aim to educate Nigerians on their rights and the need to fully participate in the general election. The commission called on Nigerians to give maximum cooperation. INEC pledges neutrality, operational excellence, and the integrity of the ballot box in the 2027 Elections.
The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, assured Nigerians that the police would use legitimate authority. The police will ensure that citizens participate fully in the polls. Disu, represented by AIG Francis Agu, stated that security agencies would continue to review their operations. Their goal is to protect INEC facilities and officials during the election.
Other stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, and representatives of the European Union, emphasized the need for INEC to be transparent. They called for credible elections, free of rancor and election malpractices. The stakeholders promised to work with INEC and deploy observers across the 774 local governments to monitor the general election.
Key points
- INEC has 103 million registered voters in Nigeria.
- The commission has concluded 9 stages out of 14 on the revised guidelines.
- INEC will engage stakeholders to ensure inclusivity, particularly for people with disabilities.
