Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has emphasized the crucial role of security agencies in ensuring the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process. Speaking at the first regular meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) for 2026, Amupitan stressed that elections cannot be regarded as credible if voters feel unsafe to participate.

Amupitan highlighted the complex electoral schedule for 2026, including Area Council elections, bye-elections, and off-cycle governorship elections, ahead of the 2027 general election. He commended security agencies for their role in the peaceful conduct of the Anambra State off-cycle governorship election and urged them to maintain professionalism, especially in identified flashpoints.

The INEC chairman disclosed that the commission would conduct a mock accreditation exercise on February 7, in preparation for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election scheduled for February 21. He also revealed plans for a nationwide voter revalidation exercise and Continuous Voter Registration, which would require security protection for facilities, personnel, and voters.

Representatives from security agencies, including the National Security Adviser and the Inspector-General of Police, assured INEC of their commitment to providing adequate security for the electoral process.