From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, has said credible elections remain critical to national security and democratic stability in Nigeria.
Amupitan stated this on Monday at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies, led by its President, Mike Ejiofor.
The visit was part of preparations for the association’s second annual lecture themed “Credible Elections and National Security in Nigeria.”
Welcoming the delegation, the INEC chairman described the theme as timely, stressing the direct relationship between electoral integrity and national peace.
“Credible elections are the bedrock of our democracy and their integrity directly impacts on our national security,” he said. “A free, fair and credible election cannot happen if it is not peaceful.”
He added that collaboration among stakeholders was essential to achieving transparent electoral processes.
“It is imperative that security agencies, policymakers and other stakeholders work in harmony to uphold transparency, fairness and security during every electoral cycle,” Amupitan said.
He commended ANNISS for its contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s security framework through training of senior officers across various agencies.
“As Nigeria continues to deepen its democratic processes, ensuring credible elections remains our foremost priority,” he stated. “We recognise that a secure environment is foundational for the success of our electoral processes.”
Amupitan also reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to collaboration with security agencies.
“INEC remains committed to conducting free, fair and credible elections, leveraging innovative approaches and strengthening collective collaborations,” he added.
Earlier, Ejiofor emphasised the need for stronger institutional collaboration between electoral bodies and security stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Given what is expected of INEC as we approach 2027, the commission should not be left out of such strategic engagements,” he said.
He noted that the association’s course was designed for top management staff and addresses key issues, including electoral security.
“No matter what we do, there may be hitches, but we pray for a seamless process in 2027. That is why this conversation on credible elections and national security is essential,” Ejiofor added.
He disclosed that the forthcoming lecture would bring together security experts, civil society actors and electoral stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening electoral integrity.
Ejiofor also announced that a former Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, would serve as the guest speaker at the event.
The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both institutions to sustained collaboration in promoting credible and secure elections in the country.
