Nigerians Expect Credible, Transparent Elections, Accord Tells New INEC Chair

The Accord Party has urged the new chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Joash Amupitan, to meet the high expectations of Nigerians for credible, transparent and inclusive elections across the country.

In a congratulatory message signed by its national chairman, Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, the party commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Prof Amupitan, describing the new INEC boss as a legal luminary, esteemed academic and seasoned administrator whose wealth of experience makes his appointment “well deserved.”

Accord noted that Nigerians are looking to the new INEC leadership to restore confidence in the nation’s electoral system by ensuring that future elections are free, fair and devoid of irregularities.

“Our great party urges him to discharge his statutory duties without fear or favour as so much is expected of him at this critical period of the nation’s democratic process,” the statement read.

The party identified the November 8, 2025, Anambra State governorship election as the first major test for Professor Amupitan and his team, urging INEC to ensure that all electoral materials and equipment are fully prepared and functional to avoid glitches and logistical lapses that could undermine the exercise.

“Citizens’ expectations are high. Nigerians want their votes to count in all elections. Adequate preparation should be made to ensure that electoral materials and equipment are ready and functional. Being the first election to be conducted by Professor Amupitan, all eyes will be on the Commission to rate his performance,” the party stated.

The party emphasised the importance of neutrality and equal opportunity for all political parties and candidates, noting that a successful Anambra poll would inspire public confidence ahead of the 2026 FCT Area Council elections, Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, and ultimately the 2027 general elections.

It also urged the new INEC chairman to consolidate on the innovations introduced by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, while improving on them to strengthen the credibility and acceptability of elections and reduce post-election litigations that often overheat the polity.