The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has urged staff of the commission to remain committed to delivering credible elections across the country.
He said Nigerians deserve a transparent electoral process and that restoring public trust in the commission must remain a top priority as preparations begin for the 2027 general elections.
Amupitan gave the charge on Friday while addressing staff of the electoral body in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The INEC chairman was in the state to inspect the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
During the visit, he stopped at several registration centres and later met with staff at the state secretariat.
He told the workers that the commission must work harder to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic system.
According to him, the credibility of the next general election will depend largely on the commitment and integrity of INEC officials across the country.
“As we build up to 2027, I want to announce that we are in it together to serve Nigeria and strengthen democracy. Though INEC is already having a trust deficit, whatever we are doing in Abuja, we have to cascade it here.
“We should work hard to restore the trust. We know state congresses are ongoing and some of you are part of it — please, any activity you are handling, do it with every honesty and utmost courtesy.
“What you are doing today will determine the 2027 elections. If you want to determine the future, you create it. What we owe Nigerians is free, fair and credible elections; let their expectations be met. We want Nigerians to begin to believe in INEC, that whoever emerges is the will of the people.”