The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians that their votes will count in the 2027 general election, while former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), called on citizens and stakeholders to support the electoral body in delivering credible polls.

The assurance was given by the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), during a courtesy visit to General Abdulsalami at his residence in Minna, Niger State, on Friday.

Amupitan, who led a delegation of National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, directors and technical aides, described the former Head of State as a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that his successful transition to civilian rule in 1999 laid the foundation for the country’s current democratic dispensation.

He also commended Abdulsalami’s leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying the committee’s Peace Accord initiative has continued to encourage political actors to embrace peaceful campaigns and elections, thereby strengthening democratic values and national stability.

The INEC chairman said the visit was a demonstration of appreciation for the elder statesman’s contributions to peaceful coexistence and credible elections in Nigeria, while also congratulating him on his recent 84th birthday.

Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to credible elections, Amupitan said INEC would remain focused on ensuring that the will of the electorate prevails despite the challenges confronting the electoral process.

“Our determination is to ensure that ordinary Nigerians can go out to vote with confidence that their votes will be counted and reflected in the final results. That is the assurance we owe every Nigerian,” he said.

He also formally announced the timetable for the 2027 general election, stating that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.

Speaking during the visit, General Abdulsalami urged Nigerians to continue supporting INEC in its efforts to strengthen the country’s democracy, stressing the importance of credible elections to national peace and development. He also pledged the continued support of the National Peace Committee towards promoting peaceful and violence-free elections across the country.