RismadarVoice Reporters
October 20, 2026
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), has warned electoral officials against partisan activities, declaring that the commission will not tolerate conduct capable of undermining the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Amupitan issued the warning on Monday, October 19, during an interactive session with INEC personnel from the South-East geopolitical zone in Enugu State.
He stressed that electoral officials must demonstrate professionalism, neutrality and discipline while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities, particularly as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
According to the chairman, staff members must avoid political affiliations or conduct that could create perceptions of bias towards any political party or candidate.
He disclosed that INEC had introduced a reward and sanction mechanism across its local government, state and national offices to strengthen accountability and promote ethical conduct.
Amupitan also announced plans to introduce a special salary structure for INEC personnel, with a proposed commencement date of January 1, 2027.
The arrangement, if approved and implemented, would move employees away from the conventional civil service salary framework.
He explained that the proposed reform was intended to improve staff welfare, strengthen institutional independence and reduce the vulnerability of electoral personnel to improper political influence.
The chairman said the commission was engaging relevant government institutions to secure the approvals and funding required for implementation.
He urged employees to remain committed to their duties, noting that public confidence in elections depended significantly on the integrity and professionalism of those responsible for conducting them.
Addressing preparations for the 2027 elections, Amupitan disclosed that INEC’s Enugu State office had received 10 additional pickup vehicles to improve operational mobility and logistics.
He also stated that non-sensitive election materials were ready, while procurement arrangements for other essential materials, including sensitive electoral supplies, were progressing.
The chairman further announced plans for comprehensive training and retraining of electoral personnel to ensure familiarity with the commission’s procedures and applicable electoral legislation.
He maintained that improved staff welfare, effective supervision and strict enforcement of professional standards would remain central to INEC’s preparations.
Amupitan reiterated that the commission’s credibility depended on its ability to conduct elections without favouring any political interest.
The proposed salary structure remains subject to the necessary approvals and funding arrangements, with no confirmation that implementation has been finalised.
