INEC Chair Flags Trust Deficit, Seeks Media Partnership Ahead of 2027 Elections
By ThankGod Inalegwu
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has expressed concern over a widening trust gap between the electoral body and the Nigerian public, calling on the media to play a central role in rebuilding confidence in the country’s electoral process.
Amupitan made the appeal on Wednesday in Abuja while hosting members of the INEC Press Corps Executive Committee during a courtesy visit—their first formal engagement since he assumed office in late 2025.
The INEC chairman acknowledged the persistent skepticism that has trailed elections in Nigeria, noting that restoring public trust requires deliberate efforts anchored on transparency and effective communication.
According to him, transparency alone is not sufficient unless it is matched with clear, consistent, and accessible communication to the electorate. He stressed that the media remains a critical bridge between the commission and Nigerians, especially in explaining reforms, electoral procedures, and innovations introduced to strengthen the system.
“We must ensure that every step we take is not only transparent but also well understood by the public. The media has a strategic role in helping us achieve this,” Amupitan said.
Speaking during the visit, Chairman of the INEC Press Corps, Segun Ojumu, described Nigeria’s elections as highly complex operations that demand strong collaboration among stakeholders, particularly the media.
Ojumu commended Amupitan for his openness and inclusive leadership style, expressing confidence that improved engagement between INEC and journalists would enhance public understanding and trust in the electoral process.
Other members of the delegation included Assistant Secretary John Onah and Welfare Director Chux Ukwuatu.
The meeting comes as INEC intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections under the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026. The commission has scheduled presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are set to hold on February 6, 2027.
Observers say the renewed push for transparency and media collaboration could prove pivotal in shaping public perception and ensuring credible elections in Africa’s largest democracy.