Prof. Joash Amupitan, who serves as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has informed the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) that governorship elections currently require more funding than the combined expenses of the Presidential and National Assembly ballots. During a meeting in Abuja with RMAFC Chairman Dr. Mohammed Shehu, Amupitan requested increased financial support to prepare for the 2027 general elections.
The INEC chair highlighted that the commission’s operational costs are extensive, covering offices in every state and local government area across the country. Beyond direct election management, the agency manages voter registration, party oversight, and complex legal challenges related to primaries. Amupitan also expressed concern regarding staff retention, noting that insufficient compensation has led to the loss of experienced personnel. He argued that better remuneration is essential to maintaining institutional efficiency and morale.
Furthermore, Amupitan emphasized the necessity of investing in electoral technology and infrastructure to protect the integrity of the voting process. He confirmed that the next presidential and National Assembly elections are slated for January 16, 2027, with gubernatorial and state assembly races following on February 6, 2027. Additionally, an off-cycle governorship election is scheduled for Osun State on August 15, 2026.
Dr. Shehu acknowledged the significant scope of INEC’s duties and commended the commission for its long-standing service since 1999. He promised continued cooperation between the two bodies to ensure that future electoral processes remain transparent and credible.
