Dare Babalola
The Independent National Electoral Commission and political party stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening electoral integrity and ensuring credible conduct ahead of the 2027 General Election following the conclusion of a three-day workshop in Lagos.
The Commission disclosed in a statement posted on its social media platforms on Friday that the training, which ended on Thursday, 14 May 2026, brought together Heads of Department in Election and Party Monitoring, senior INEC management staff, political party representatives, development partners and election experts.
The engagement focused on the Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties as well as the Political Party Finance Reporting and Audit System (PFRAS), with participants deliberating on compliance, accountability and emerging electoral challenges.
Members of the Election and Party Monitoring Committee (EPMC), including Dr. Baba Bila, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, Mr. Sam Olumekun mni, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, Prof. Sani M. Adam, Dr. Kenneth Nnamdi Ukeagu and Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar Malafa mni, OFR (Rtd), were said to have actively participated throughout the sessions and closing activities. Development partners such as the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, Development Alternatives Incorporated, the European Union and The Kukah Centre were also commended for their support.
Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Commission’s leadership, Dr. Kenneth Ukeagu reiterated INEC’s neutrality and commitment to providing a level playing field for all political parties, stressing that the Commission does not support any party but operates strictly within the provisions of the law. He urged political parties to comply with existing electoral guidelines and to channel grievances through lawful mechanisms.
He also charged Heads of Department in Election and Party Monitoring to remain professional and impartial during the upcoming party primaries, noting that they are expected to observe and report without interference. Participants were further encouraged to share the knowledge gained with colleagues in their respective states ahead of the busy electoral timetable.
The Chief Technical Adviser to the INEC Chairman, Prof. Dimis Mai-Lafia, expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the workshop, describing the sessions as productive and goal-oriented. He called for continued dialogue, restraint and peaceful resolution of political disagreements among stakeholders as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
