Ekiti, Osun Elections a Litmus Test for 2027 Polls, Says INEC Chair Amupitan

As groundwork for the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States gathers momentum, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged both its personnel and the Nigerian public to maintain strong standards of accountability, discipline, and integrity.

Chairman of the commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), made the call in his Eid-el-Fitr message to Muslim faithful, urging renewed commitment to credible electoral processes.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, the INEC boss described the end of Ramadan as “a victory of the spirit over the self,” noting that its lessons should guide the conduct of electoral officials.

“The lessons of Ramadan, patience, integrity, and empathy, are the very virtues we require as we approach the critical milestones of 2026. Discipline must translate into a renewed commitment to electoral integrity,” he said.

Amupitan described the forthcoming governorship elections as a major test run ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He maintained that the polls would serve as a “litmus test” for the commission’s preparedness and the effectiveness of its ongoing reforms.

According to him, the commitment of INEC staff to professionalism and ethical conduct would play a key role in tackling voter apathy and rebuilding public trust in the electoral system.

The INEC chairman stressed that the commission would not condone any form of misconduct among its workforce, insisting that professionalism remains non-negotiable.

He urged staff across the country to adopt a zero-tolerance stance on unethical practices, especially as the electoral cycle gains momentum.

Highlighting the coincidence of Ramadan with the Christian Lenten season, Amupitan described the moment as symbolic of unity and shared responsibility among Nigerians.

“Seeing both faiths within the Commission engaged in simultaneous fasting and intercession reinforces my belief in our shared humanity,” he said.

He added that the convergence underscores the importance of collective responsibility in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

The chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to staff welfare, noting that recent initiatives, including the reintroduction of institutional gatherings such as Iftar, were aimed at boosting morale.

“With a workforce of over 14,000, we recognise that a motivated workforce is the best defence against external political pressure,” he stated.

He emphasised that improved working conditions would help staff remain focused and resistant to undue influence.

Amupitan further disclosed that the commission is operating under the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which mandates stricter compliance with technological innovations.

He said tools such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and the INEC Result Viewing Portal would be deployed to enhance transparency and credibility in elections.

Describing the current period as crucial in Nigeria’s democratic journey, the INEC boss urged both staff and citizens to reflect the values of Ramadan beyond the festive season.

“The conclusion of the fast is not just a celebration, but a foundation for renewed commitment to service, integrity, and national development,” he said.