The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has admitted that the commission faces a significant “trust deficit” with the public, calling on the media to help reshape the national narrative ahead of a busy cycle of polls.
Professor Amupitan made the remark during a courtesy visit from the Executive Committee of the INEC Press Corps in Abuja.
The visit was the first formal meeting between the commission’s leadership and the media group since Professor Amupitan was appointed as Chairman in late 2025.
Rebuilding Public Confidence
Professor Amupitan commended the journalists for their professional support, noting that the commission remains acutely aware of the skepticism often held by the Nigerian electorate.
He urged the media to partner with INEC in ensuring that the transparency of the electoral process is effectively communicated to Nigerians.
The Chairman of the Press Corps, Segun Ojumu, who led the delegation, praised the “transparent manner” in which Professor Amupitan has managed the commission since taking office.
Mr. Ojumu was accompanied by John Onah, Assistant Secretary of the Press Corps and
Chux Ukwuatu, Welfare Director.
Mr. Ojumu described Nigerian elections as “huge logistical challenge” that requires the collaboration of all stakeholders to succeed.
2027 Elections
The meeting comes as INEC ramps up preparations for several high-stakes elections.
Nigeria is currently following a revised electoral roadmap following the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026.
The commission has scheduled the next Presidential and National Assembly polls for January 16, 2027, and February 6, 2027 for Governorship and State House of Assembly.
Off-Cycle Polls
Before the general elections, the commission faces critical “litmus tests” in two southwest states where the electoral cycles are out of sync with the rest of the country.
These “off-cycle” elections are often seen as indicators of the commission’s readiness for the national stage.
Ekiti State is scheduled for June 20, 2026 while Osun State is scheduled for August 8, 2026.
Professor Amupitan, who succeeded Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has pledged to deliver “free, fair, and inclusive” polls as the country enters this intensive electoral window.