The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has called on Nigerians and the media to remain vigilant and proactive as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Wednesday at INEC’s first quarterly meeting with media executives, Prof. Amupitan warned that misinformation, disinformation and foreign information manipulation pose serious threats to Nigeria’s electoral integrity.
He noted that the nation is entering a period of heightened electoral activities, beginning with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, 2026, followed by the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
“As we navigate this period of intense electoral activity, the Commission remains committed to openness and accountability,” he said. “However, even the strongest electoral systems can be undermined by misinformation, misinterpretation, deliberate distortion and Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference.”
The INEC chairman urged media organisations to prioritise accurate and responsible reporting, stressing that the Commission’s official website and digital platforms remain the most reliable sources of information.
“Our official website and all digital channels are veritable and authoritative points of contact for the media. Officials of the Commission authorised to speak with the media will continue to do so,” he added.
Prof. Amupitan emphasised that modern elections are no longer decided solely at polling units but also within the information space, calling on journalists to actively combat false narratives.
“Elections are no longer just contested at polling units; they are contested in the information space. I urge the media to rise against mis- and disinformation to protect the sanctity of our electoral process,” he said.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the INEC chairman called on Nigerians to remain alert and engaged, describing credible elections as a shared responsibility.
“As we look towards the 2027 General Elections, it is imperative that we remain vigilant and proactive. We must prepare for a seamless electoral process that embodies the ideals of democracy, justice and inclusivity,” Prof. Amupitan stated. “This is a collective responsibility, and every stakeholder has a vital role to play in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.”
