The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Joash Amupitan, has ordered Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) across the country to intensify voter education and sensitisation, saying sound policies mean little if citizens do not understand the electoral process.
Amupitan on Wednesday, gave the charge at a meeting with RECs on Wednesday in Abuja, held on the heels of the just-concluded FCT Area Council election and bye-elections in Kano and Rivers states, as well as the swearing-in of the new REC representing Abia State, Dr. Chukwu Chukwu-Emeka Joseph.
While acknowledging modest improvement in voter turnout in the FCT poll, the INEC chairman said voter apathy remained a major concern.
“Voter apathy still manifested in the turnout, although with modest improvement in the FCT. From 9.4% in 2022, participation rose to approximately 15% in this election, with over 239,000 voters casting ballots, as against 148,685 in 2022. There is still considerable work to be done to deepen voter engagement and confidence,” he said.
He stressed that every election offers lessons ahead of future contests, including the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states and the 2027 General Elections.
“Our policies may be sound. Our intentions may be noble. But if citizens do not understand our processes, then the objective is only half achieved,” Amupitan said.
He, consequently, directed RECs to step up awareness campaigns in their states.
“I, therefore, direct all Resident Electoral Commissioners to intensify voter education and sensitisation in your respective states. Voter awareness must not be episodic. It must be continuous.
“Citizens must be encouraged to verify their polling unit details well ahead of elections, including through the Commission’s online Polling Unit Locator… Where necessary, they should physically visit their polling locations before Election Day,” he added.
The INEC chairman cautioned against absenteeism and dereliction of duty among staff.
“We will no longer tolerate indiscipline. Any staff who fails to report for duty, arrives late without justification, or otherwise sabotages the process will face sanctions in accordance with our regulations,” he said.
Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, he urged RECs to institutionalise post-election reviews and internal audits.
“The credibility of the Commission is built not on declarations, but on performance. Each polling unit that opens late erodes trust. Conversely, each transparent upload to IReV, each peaceful polling environment, and each satisfied voter strengthen our democracy.”
He added that with the enactment of the new Electoral Act 2026, the commission would issue a revised timetable for the 2027 General Election and embark on a clean-up of the voters’ register.
“I urge you all to return to your states with renewed commitment, heightened vigilance and a clear message to your staff: excellence is not optional; it is mandatory,” he said.
The INEC chairman expressed displeasure over logistics lapses during the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) poll, revealing that only 45 per cent of polling units opened by 8:30 am.
“Although we achieved 100% by 10:00 am, the initial delay is unacceptable,” he said.
“There will be consequences for any act capable of sabotaging the process, and 45% opening at 8:30 am is not satisfactory. It fell short of our standards. It undermines public confidence. And it will not be tolerated,” Amupitan said.
He disclosed that some staff in Kuje Area Council and Kabusa Ward had been queried, while a transporter in Kwali Area Council had been blacklisted over delays.
On security, he commended security agencies for ensuring peaceful voting but acknowledged the invasion of the Kuje Central Collation Centre by thugs during the collation process.
“Elections must be peaceful, not by accident, but by design.”
