Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has implored commission staff to uphold stringent discipline and adopt a complete lack of tolerance for any form of misconduct. This directive aims to address voter apathy and restore public trust.
In a special Eid-el-Fitr message released on Friday through his Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, Amupitan stated that INEC is currently operating under the provisions of the recently enacted Electoral Act 2026. This legislation mandates a stricter adherence to new technological tools such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV).
He pointed out that the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in Ekiti and Osun states will serve as the initial significant evaluation for these implemented reforms. The Chairman has consistently emphasized that these polls are a critical trial run preceding the 2027 general election.
"With a workforce numbering over 14,000 individuals, the Commission is focusing on internal discipline alongside improvements in working conditions, recognizing that a well-motivated staff is the strongest defense against external political pressures."
The Chairman issued a clear directive, reminding everyone that maintaining professional excellence is an essential and non-negotiable requirement.
Amupitan reiterated that ensuring the welfare of INEC's 14,000 staff members remains a central priority of his leadership.
He cited the recent Iftar gathering organized at the Commission, which marked the first such institutional event in eight years, as concrete evidence of his commitment to a staff-first approach.
Remarkably, the Chairman observed the significant and positive coincidence of this year's Ramadan period falling at the same time as the Christian Lenten season.
Amupitan underscored that the simultaneous spiritual observances within the commission by both faiths serve to reinforce a collective commitment to the Nigerian national project.
"Witnessing both faiths within the commission engaged in concurrent fasting and prayer strengthens my conviction in our shared humanity," the Chairman commented. "The enduring values learned during Ramadan—patience, integrity, and empathy—are precisely the virtues we need as we advance towards the pivotal electoral milestones of 2026," he added.
Adedayo Akinwale
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