As Nigeria gears up for its 2027 presidential election, Chief Executive of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has emphasized the pivotal role that the newly appointed judges of the Election Petition Tribunal (EPT) will play in determining the nation’s political stability. Addressing a swearing-in ceremony, Amupitan indicated that the judiciary is essential in addressing grievances arising from the electoral process.
Amupitan remarked that the political ramifications of the tribunal’s decisions would extend beyond Nigeria, influencing other African nations that look to Nigeria for democratic guidance. He underscored that the EPT is not merely a post-election mechanism but rather an integral component to ensuring the constitutional integrity of the electoral process.
He advocated for the tribunal to operate with speed, rigour in evidence handling, and impartiality to assist in resolving conflicts, ensuring accountability, and preserving the social contract between the electorate and the government. In his view, any delays or unpredictability in judicial proceedings could pose a threat to the country’s political stability.
Amupitan also warned of modern challenges related to electoral integrity, including digital misinformation and manipulation, highlighting the need for transparency and strict adherence to evidentiary standards to combat these threats.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, alongside Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, called on lawyers to maintain professionalism and integrity in legal practices during the election period. They stressed that the judiciary must resist pressures that could compromise its independence.
In a related note, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) issued a statement urging judicial officers to act in the best interest of democracy, warning against judicial corruption and the risks posed by political interference. HURIWA underscored that the electoral process must reflect the will of the people, free from manipulation or financial influence.
Moreover, INEC has reportedly removed over 1.6 million invalid voter registrations from the preliminary register, aiming to enhance the integrity of the upcoming election.
