INEC chairman admits election trust deficit from Nigerians

…Says Nigeria’s electoral landscape complex, highly competitive

From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja

The chairman of the All Progressives Congress (INEC), Joash Ojo Amupitan, has expressed concerns over the prevailing trust deficit, admitting that it has become a major concern for the commission.

Amupitan made the admittance on Monday, during a meeting with the National Peace Committee (NPC) and other critical stakeholders and presentation of the Annotated Peace Accord organised by the NPC in Abuja.

In his remarks, Amupita underscored the urgency of restoring confidence in the electoral system.

“So for us, we appeal to the NPC to help us in the area of building trust. The trust deficit is such that anywhere you go, it’s palpable. If voters will not participate, then whoever emerges… it is also in our own interest that everybody continues to participate. We will get it right one day,” he assured.

The electoral umpire boss described Nigeria’s electoral landscape as diverse, complex and highly competitive, stressing that democratic growth must be anchored not only on legality but also legitimacy.

“Let the process be so transparent that whoever emerges will not only have legality but legitimacy,” he stated, adding that the commission remains open to scrutiny and constructive criticism. “Constitutionally, INEC is the custodian of Nigerian democracy and elections. Whatever comments are made, we don’t get angry. We take them, process them and see how we can improve,” he said.

Amupita also emphasised that while INEC continues to refine its processes, the responsibility of credible elections cannot rest on the Commission alone. He called on political parties to strengthen voter mobilisation and internal discipline, noting that sustained civic engagement is vital to reversing declining turnout.

He expressed concern about low voter turnout in recent elections, noting that broad-based confidence in the system is essential for democratic legitimacy.

The Chairman also highlighted steps taken by the commission to improve results management and address public concerns around transparency. Without disclosing operational details, he stated that additional safeguards had been introduced to ensure consistency and accuracy in results handling, adding that these measures were tested in recent elections.

On misinformation, Amupita warned that the spread of false narratives during elections undermines public confidence and can inflame tensions. He disclosed that the commission works closely with security agencies and relevant institutions to counter disinformation and ensure factual reporting of electoral processes.
While addressing the issue of electoral offences, particularly vote trading, the INEC Chairman reiterated that such practices remain criminal under Nigerian law and must be dealt with decisively. He urged law enforcement agencies to conclude investigations promptly and pursue prosecution where necessary.
The commission, he said, is also prioritising the sanitisation of the voter register, acknowledging concerns about duplications and outdated records. According to him, ensuring an authentic and credible register remains a foundational element of credible elections.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, Amupita described them as critical milestones on the road to 2027. He disclosed that INEC is considering additional technology testing, including mock exercises in selected polling units, to further strengthen operational preparedness.
He also appealed for the timely release of election funds in accordance with the amended legal provisions, stressing that early access to resources is crucial for procurement, logistics and overall planning.