By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has issued a strong warning against vote buying ahead of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections set for February 21.
He spoke on Wednesday in Abuja during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened to review the commission’s readiness for the exercise. He assured participants that INEC remains committed to delivering a peaceful, transparent, and credible election.
Amupitan disclosed that over 1.6 million registered voters are expected to take part in the polls. Voting will take place across 2,822 polling units. A total of 570 candidates will contest for 68 elective offices spread across the six area councils.
He explained that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) will be used in all polling units. Election results will also be transmitted instantly to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal to strengthen transparency.
The INEC chairman added that 89 observer groups have received accreditation to monitor the process. About 700 journalists will also cover the election. He said several security agencies will be deployed to maintain order.
He noted in particular that personnel from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) will be present to prevent vote trading and related offences.
“Any individual found buying or selling votes will be apprehended and dealt with in accordance with the law,” Amupitan said.
“Vote trading undermines the sanctity of the ballot and erodes public confidence in democratic institutions. It must not be tolerated.”
On logistics, Amupitan said 1,132 vehicles, 620 motorcycles, and 14 boats have been arranged for the movement of officials and election materials. He stressed that operational failures must not occur on election day.
He stated that polling units are scheduled to open at 8:30 am. This decision followed consultations with transport unions to ensure early delivery of materials.
The INEC chairman also reaffirmed the commission’s neutrality.
“INEC does not have a political party and does not have a preferred candidate. Our mandate is clear: to provide the enabling environment for residents of the Federal Capital Territory to freely choose their representatives,” he said.
Amupitan urged political parties, candidates, and supporters to maintain peace before and during the election. He also called on security agencies to act professionally and remain impartial throughout the process.
