The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has pledged that the glitches experienced during the 2023 elections will be completely eliminated ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Amupitan made the remarks at a Citizens’ Town Hall Meeting themed “What It Means for Your Vote and the 2027 Elections,” organised by the Civil Society Network on Electoral Integrity over the weekend in Abuja.
The INEC Chairman stated that the 2027 elections would be the best in Nigeria’s history, citing key reforms introduced by the Electoral Act 2026.
According to him, while devices were tested during off-cycle state polls, they were not adequately stress tested for nationwide transmission during the 2023 presidential election a gap that will not recur.
He described the new law as a major step toward restoring public trust, enhancing transparency, and strengthening democratic legitimacy.
Amupitan commended advocacy groups for helping citizens understand the provisions of the law, stressing that civic engagement is essential to democratic consolidation.
“Democracy and elections in particular is the lifeblood of democracy,” he said, quoting Abraham Lincoln: “The ballot is more powerful than the bullet,” while warning that voter ignorance poses a threat to national security.
Addressing concerns over the technical issues that affected the 2023 presidential election results transmission, Amupitan assured Nigerians that lessons have been learned.
“Glitches have been eliminated. By God’s grace, they will not surface again,” he said.
He disclosed that extensive testing would be conducted before 2027 to ensure seamless inter-state transmission of results.
The INEC chairman highlighted strengthened provisions for electronic transmission of results as one of the most significant features of the new law, revealing that INEC advocated for mandatory transmission during legislative consultations.
However, he cautioned against unrealistic expectations of real-time uploads, citing logistical and network challenges experienced even within the Federal Capital Territory. He recalled delays in result transmission from Kabir Ward in Kuje Area Council due to poor network connectivity and difficult terrain.
“What Nigeria needs is simple legislation written in clear language so that every Nigerian can understand and appreciate the provisions of every section,” he added.
