The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigeria Police to remain vigilant in preventing vote buying and vote trading.
Amupitan made the call while receiving a delegation from the National Peace Committee at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. He said the agencies had been placed on alert to address electoral offences and ensure credible elections.
The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to tackling vote buying, noting that law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies had been tasked with taking proactive measures.
He also assured that INEC would act on security intelligence and risk assessments presented by the National Peace Committee ahead of the February 21 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections. He described the committee’s report as timely and valuable, adding that the information would be reviewed and shared with relevant security agencies for necessary action.
Amupitan stated that the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), as well as Bwari and Kuje Area Councils, would receive special attention based on identified risks.
He emphasized the importance of the Peace Accord signed by political parties, describing it as a commitment to peaceful conduct and acceptance of election outcomes.
The INEC chairman added that upcoming elections would play a key role in the commission’s preparations for the 2027 general election.
Leader of the National Peace Committee delegation, Rev. Atta Barkindo, assured INEC of the committee’s continued support and collaboration to promote peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.
The committee identified AMAC, Gwagwalada, Bwari, Kuje, and Kwali Area Councils as areas requiring increased vigilance due to risks such as vote buying, political tensions, insecurity, and election-related violence.
The National Peace Committee said it would continue to provide data-driven support and strategic guidance to help ensure peaceful and credible elections across the country.
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