From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
Ahead of the governorship election in Ekiti State, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has warned staff of the commission against manipulating election results or engaging in activities capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process in the country.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the INEC Chairman gave the warning while addressing staff of the commission in Ekiti as part of preparations for the governorship election.
He stressed that there would be consequences for anyone involved in activities that could compromise the credibility of elections in the country.
He drew the attention of the staff to the provisions of the law regarding the role of electoral officers in the conduct of elections, while assuring that the commission would reward those who perform creditably during the governorship poll.
Prof. Amupitan told the staff, especially Electoral Officers, that the world expects “105 percent performance” from the commission, adding that the Ekiti governorship election would serve as a litmus test for the 2027 general elections.
He reminded them of the need to maintain a high level of integrity before, during and after the election, while also safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
The INEC Chairman further assured the staff that the commission was closely monitoring their activities, noting that those who distinguish themselves would be handsomely rewarded, including the possibility of double promotions where necessary, as a form of encouragement.
He also assured the staff that their welfare remained a priority for the commission, adding that management was working towards improving the salary structure for workers across the country.
However, he explained that the resources currently available to the commission were insufficient to provide the welfare package the staff deserve, noting that the commission still operates under the envelope budgeting system despite being placed on first-line charge funding.
