The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has cautioned that the recurrent decline in voter turnout in Nigeria is transitioning from a civic matter to a pressing national security concern.
Amupitan delivered these remarks on Thursday in Abuja at the second annual lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), where he outlined the wider ramifications of voter apathy for governance and national stability.
He noted, "Even with the peaceful execution of the FCT council elections, where voter turnout rose from 9.4 percent to 15 percent, the challenge of voter apathy remains a significant issue."
The INEC chairman pointed out that the gradual decrease in voter engagement over recent years reflects a disturbing trend that threatens the legitimacy of democracy in Nigeria.
"A decline from 53 percent in 2011 to merely 26 percent in 2023 underscores that low turnout is no longer just a civic issue; it constitutes a security risk. Such apathy creates a vacuum that allows non-state actors to undermine government legitimacy," he stated.
Amupitan emphasized the link between credible elections and national security, indicating that citizens' trust in the electoral process is crucial for mitigating post-election tensions and unrest.
"When the populace has confidence in the electoral system, there is a greater likelihood that they will accept the results, which helps to reduce tensions that could lead to turmoil," he added.
He further highlighted emerging threats facing the integrity of elections in Nigeria, notably the growing influence of technology and the spread of misinformation.
"Today, Nigeria is confronted with a complex triad of electoral challenges, involving the volatility of social media, the manipulation of AI-driven disinformation, and foreign information interference (FIMI), in addition to logistical issues," he asserted.
Despite these challenges, Amupitan assured the public that the commission is taking proactive measures to enhance the credibility and transparency of upcoming elections, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.
He remarked that essential technological tools such as the bimodal voter accreditation system (BVAS) and the INEC result viewing portal (IReV) will be pivotal in protecting the electoral process.
Additionally, the INEC chairman called for stronger synergies among the commission, security agencies, civil society groups, and voters, reiterating that a collective effort is required to facilitate credible and peaceful elections.
"An election is only as effective as its logistics and as peaceful as its security," he concluded.
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