The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced a series of consultative meetings with key stakeholders to outline the roadmap for the 2027 General Election and several upcoming off-cycle polls.
Speaking at the first session with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Wednesday, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash O. Amupitan, SAN, described 2026 as a year of intense electoral activities. He cited the successful conclusion of the Anambra governorship election as a foundation for upcoming tasks, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for Feb. 21, 2026.
The Chairman further noted that the commission is preparing for bye-elections in Rivers and Kano States, as well as governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States.
To ensure the integrity of the next general cycle, Prof. Amupitan announced a forthcoming nationwide voter revalidation exercise. While assuring stakeholders that the 2027 election timetable would be released in accordance with statutory requirements, he stressed the need for the National Assembly to expedite amendments to the Electoral Act to provide a clearer legal framework for the commission’s operations.
In her response, CSO representative Grace Alache Jerry affirmed the commitment of civil society to support the commission but warned that delays in legislative action could hamper early preparations.
“We pledge our continued support for INEC, but we must urge the National Assembly to take urgent action on the electoral legal framework to avoid any setbacks as we approach the 2027 General Election,” Jerry said.
