Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has called for full financial autonomy for the electoral body, saying it is essential to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Amupitan made the call while addressing stakeholders, arguing that although the Constitution provides for INEC’s funding through the Consolidated Revenue Fund, the current appropriation process still limits the Commission’s operational independence.
He questioned whether the electoral umpire could truly function independently without direct financial control over its resources.
“Can INEC truly be independent without financial autonomy? If we are serious about strengthening our institutions and conducting free, fair and credible elections, then financial autonomy is essential,” Amupitan said.
The INEC chairman maintained that granting the Commission greater financial independence would strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process and improve its ability to discharge its constitutional responsibilities without undue interference.
His remarks come as preparations gradually gather momentum for the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders advocating reforms aimed at improving transparency, credibility, and institutional independence.
