The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that every valid vote cast in the 2027 general elections will count, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to conducting credible, free and fair polls.
Amupitan gave the assurance on Friday during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State.
The INEC chairman led a delegation comprising National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, directors and his technical aides.
During the visit, Amupitan described Abdulsalami as “the father of democracy in Nigeria,” noting that his successful transition to civilian rule in 1999 marked a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey.
He said the commission regarded the former Head of State not only as a respected statesman but also as a dependable pillar of support for INEC.
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According to him, the initiative has provided political actors with a platform to commit themselves to non-violence, thereby strengthening respect for the will of the electorate.
Describing the visit as “a pilgrimage of appreciation,” the INEC chairman congratulated Abdulsalami on his recent 84th birthday and acknowledged his contributions to peaceful coexistence, democratic stability and credible elections in Nigeria.
Amupitan assured Nigerians that despite the challenges confronting the electoral body, INEC remained determined to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
“The Commission’s determination under my leadership was to see ordinary Nigerians go out and vote, confident that their votes would be duly counted and reflected in the outcome of elections,” he said.
He added that ensuring every valid vote counts remains the commission’s foremost obligation to the Nigerian electorate.
The INEC chairman also officially confirmed the timetable for the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
In his remarks, Abdulsalami called on Nigerians to support INEC in its efforts to deliver credible elections, stressing the importance of peaceful participation and national unity ahead of the 2027 polls.