The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has warned that growing insecurity across Nigeria poses a serious threat to the conduct of the 2027 general elections.
Mr Amupitan said persistent violence, electoral malpractice and security threats could undermine public confidence in the electoral process if urgent and proactive measures are not taken.
He spoke on Wednesday during a visit to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, in Abuja, as part of preparations for the 2027 elections.
According to the INEC chairman, Nigeria’s electoral system has continued to face challenges ranging from violence to vote-buying and other forms of malpractice.
“In Nigeria, our electoral system has faced numerous challenges over the years, ranging from malpractices to threats of violence and vote trading, all of which undermine the confidence of the electorate.
“These challenges not only affect the outcome of our elections, but also pose significant risks to our national security. Thus, it is imperative that we address these concerns with utmost seriousness and resolve,” he said.
Mr Amupitan called for comprehensive security planning ahead of the elections, stressing that security agencies must identify potential flashpoints and deploy preventive measures to protect voters, electoral officials and election materials.
“The scale of insecurity across various parts of Nigeria presents a threat to the conduct of free and fair elections,” he added.
He noted that ongoing political activities, including party congresses and upcoming primaries under the Electoral Act 2026, have heightened the need for adequate security arrangements.
The INEC chairman also referenced the forthcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as several pending by-elections across the country, describing them as critical tests for Nigeria’s democratic process.
He added that the commission was working to ensure that internally displaced persons, IDPs, and persons with disabilities are provided with a conducive environment to participate in the electoral process.
In his remarks, the Inspector-General of Police pledged stronger collaboration with INEC to ensure peaceful, secure and credible elections across the country.
