By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage– The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians that every valid vote will count in the 2027 General Election, while former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), urged citizens and political stakeholders to support the Commission in delivering credible elections.
The assurance was given by the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), during a courtesy visit to General Abdulsalami at his residence in Minna, Niger State, on Friday.
Leading a delegation of National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, directors and technical aides, Prof. Amupitan described the former Head of State as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that his successful transition to civilian rule in 1999 laid the foundation for the country’s current democratic dispensation.
He also commended Abdulsalami’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying the committee’s Peace Accord initiative has helped promote peaceful elections by encouraging political actors to embrace non-violence and respect the electoral process.
Describing the visit as a “pilgrimage of appreciation,” the INEC chairman acknowledged the elder statesman’s contributions to democratic stability, peaceful coexistence and credible elections, while congratulating him on his recent 84th birthday.
Prof. Amupitan reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to conducting transparent elections despite the challenges associated with the electoral process.
He said INEC would remain steadfast in ensuring that the will of the people, as expressed through the ballot, prevails.
“Our determination is to ensure that every Nigerian can vote with confidence, knowing that every valid vote will be counted and reflected in the final outcome of the election,” he said.
The INEC chairman also formally announced 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.
Responding, General Abdulsalami described the chairmanship of INEC as one of the most demanding public offices in the country, given the competing expectations of political actors.
He, however, urged Nigerians to support the Commission, stressing that the success of the nation’s democracy depends largely on public confidence in INEC and cooperation from political stakeholders.
The former Head of State also expressed confidence in Prof. Amupitan’s leadership, encouraging him to remain impartial and resolute in the discharge of his responsibilities.
He assured the Commission of his continued support and prayers as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather momentum.
Prof. Amupitan thanked the elder statesman for his continued goodwill toward INEC, reiterating the Commission’s resolve to deliver free, fair and credible elections.
Earlier, the INEC chairman met with staff of the Commission’s Niger State office, where he emphasized that field officials play a critical role in ensuring the credibility of elections.
He described them as the Commission’s “grassroots foot soldiers” and urged Electoral Officers and other staff to uphold professionalism and integrity, noting that public trust in the electoral process depends significantly on their conduct.
Prof. Amupitan also assured staff that INEC was reviewing its welfare packages, disclosing that efforts were underway to improve working conditions after finding staff welfare to be among the poorest in the public service when he assumed office.
