By David Lawani, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday held a high-level review meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners to assess the conduct of the recently concluded elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano and Rivers States, while outlining new measures to strengthen electoral transparency and operational efficiency ahead of the 2027 general election.
The meeting, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, also featured the swearing-in of Dr Chukwu Chukwu-Emeka Joseph as Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu State.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, commended staff for the successful conduct of the FCT Area Council election and the bye-elections in Kano Municipal and Ungogo State Constituencies, as well as Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies in Rivers State.
He noted that the elections were largely peaceful and transparent, with results announced within a reasonable timeframe.
However, difficult terrain in Kabi Ward, Kuje Area Council, delayed final collation until Sunday afternoon.
He disclosed that by 2:00 pm on Sunday, over 93 per cent of polling unit results had been uploaded to the Commission’s Result Viewing Portal. In comparison, average transmission later rose to about 97 per cent.
According to him, the development underscores the Commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability and public confidence in the electoral process.
While acknowledging that voter apathy remains a concern, Amupitan noted a modest improvement in voter turnout in the FCT, rising from 9.4 per cent in 2022 to approximately 15 per cent in 2026.
He said over 239,000 voters participated in the election, up from 148,685 previously, stressing that sustained voter education and engagement would further strengthen democratic participation.
Addressing public concerns about alleged voter migration, the INEC chairman clarified that no voters were migrated in 2026, noting that the redistribution of voters was carried out in 2022 following the creation of over 56,000 additional polling units nationwide.
“No voter was migrated in 2026. The adjustments were administrative measures designed to ease congestion and improve efficiency without altering voter registration status,” he said.
He also expressed concern about delays in opening polling units, noting that only 45 per cent were operational by 8:30 am, although all eventually opened by 10:00 am.
He described the situation as unacceptable and disclosed that officials responsible had been queried, while a transport provider linked to the delay would be blocked.
The chairman commended security agencies for maintaining peace but acknowledged isolated disruptions at collation centres in Kuje and Kwali, noting that swift intervention ensured the successful completion of the process.
He further disclosed that following the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026, the Commission would issue a revised timetable for the 2027 elections and commence voter revalidation to strengthen the integrity of the voter register.
Swearing in the new Enugu REC, Amupitan charged him to uphold electoral integrity and public trust.
“Your dedication, expertise and commitment to upholding the democratic process have not gone unnoticed. You must inspire confidence, strengthen processes and ensure elections under your watch remain free, fair and credible,” he said.
