By Muhammad Mamman
The newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Etekamba Amupitan, has expressed the Commission’s readiness to work closely with the National Assembly to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process and ensure credible, transparent, and inclusive elections.
Speaking in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the leadership of the National Assembly, Dr. Amupitan said the collaboration between INEC and lawmakers was essential for improving electoral laws, logistics, and voter confidence ahead of future polls.
“INEC cannot achieve credible elections in isolation,” he said. “We need the full support of the National Assembly, especially in areas of legislative reform, budgetary backing, and oversight, to consolidate democracy and restore public trust in the process.”
The INEC boss highlighted several key areas where cooperation would be beneficial, including the review of the Electoral Act, technological innovation in voting and result transmission, and enhanced voter education.
He also pledged that the Commission would build on lessons from past elections to improve transparency and inclusivity, ensuring that no group or region feels marginalised.
Responding, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured the Commission of the legislature’s readiness to work hand in hand with INEC to deliver a more efficient and credible electoral system.
“The credibility of our elections reflects the credibility of our democracy,” Akpabio said. “We will continue to provide the necessary legislative support to INEC to ensure free and fair polls.”
Political analysts have welcomed the renewed engagement, noting that effective collaboration between INEC and the National Assembly could help address persistent challenges such as electoral violence, vote buying, and logistical lapses.
Observers also note that Dr. Amupitan’s outreach marks one of his first major engagements since assuming office, signalling his intent to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system after widespread criticism of recent elections.
