INEC chair Joash Amupitan confirms 2027 elections timetable and urges political parties to mobilise voters ahead of FCT council election
Joash Amupitan, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, has confirmed that the timetable for the 2027 general elections is ready, while urging political parties to intensify voter mobilisation ahead of the February 21 council election in the Federal Capital Territory.
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Speaking at the commission’s quarterly consultative meeting with party leaders on Thursday, Amupitan stressed the importance of ensuring that eligible voters collect their Permanent Voter Cards.
He warned political leaders and their supporters against hate speech, violence, and vote-buying.
“Political parties are indispensable partners in deepening electoral participation. I, therefore, urge you to intensify your efforts in mobilising residents across the FCT area councils to collect their PVCs,” Amupitan said.
The INEC chairman highlighted that the voter card distribution exercise is scheduled to conclude on February 10, and emphasised that no eligible voter should be disenfranchised.
Amupitan also reiterated the commission’s call on the National Assembly to expedite amendments to the Electoral Act to provide a stable legal environment ahead of the polls.
He noted that while the Senate passed the Electoral Act Amendment Bill on Wednesday and set up a conference committee, the commission remains ready to proceed with its timetable.
“Nevertheless, if it’s getting too delayed, we‘ll just go ahead and do whatever we need to do,” Amupitan explained.
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The meeting underlined INEC’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections and the crucial role of political parties in fostering voter education and participation.
