INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan says financial autonomy is crucial for the commission to deliver free and credible elections ahead of 2027
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has called for greater financial independence for the electoral body, arguing that sustainable funding autonomy is necessary to strengthen its ability to conduct free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
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Amupitan made the remarks on Thursday at the public presentation of Shadows: Protest Essays on Africa’s Most Consequential Country (1999–2023), a book authored by THISDAY Managing Director, Mr Eniola Bello.
The INEC chairman said continued reliance on the conventional government budget process could weaken the commission’s operational independence, despite its constitutional role as the institution responsible for managing Nigeria’s elections.
“Can INEC truly be independent without financial autonomy? If we are serious about strengthening our institutions and conducting free, fair and credible elections, then financial autonomy is essential,” Amupitan said.
He explained that while the Constitution provides for INEC’s funding through the Consolidated Revenue Fund, practical experience has shown that the existing arrangement does not fully guarantee independence because the commission still operates through the wider appropriation process.
According to Amupitan, financial autonomy would help INEC plan more effectively, improve operational readiness and strengthen public confidence in the electoral system as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The INEC chairman, however, emphasised that credible elections cannot be achieved by the commission alone.
He said political parties, security agencies, the media, civil society organisations and citizens all have important roles to play in protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
His comments come amid renewed national discussions on electoral reforms, institutional independence and preparations for the next general election cycle.
The debate over INEC financial autonomy has remained a recurring issue in Nigeria’s democratic development, with reform advocates arguing that independent control of resources would reduce administrative delays and enhance the commission’s ability to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.
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As political activities gradually intensify ahead of 2027, stakeholders continue to highlight the need for stronger electoral institutions, improved transparency and public confidence in the processes that determine political leadership.
