The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political parties have reaffirmed their commitment to credible, transparent and peaceful elections ahead of the 2027 General Election following the conclusion of a three-day workshop in Lagos.
The workshop, which focused on Political Party Regulations and Guidelines as well as the Political Party Finance Reporting and Audit System (PFRAS), brought together party leaders, INEC officials, development partners and electoral experts to discuss best practices and emerging electoral issues.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Thursday, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Election and Party Monitoring Committee (EPMC), Dr. Kenneth Nnamdi Ukeagu, said INEC would continue to maintain neutrality and provide a level playing field for all political parties.
“We are there for you. We always create a level playing field for everyone. The Commission is not supporting any political party and will continue to act strictly in accordance with the law and the Commission’s guidelines,” he said.
Dr. Ukeagu urged political parties to comply with electoral laws and guidelines, especially during party primaries scheduled ahead of the 2027 elections. He also cautioned Heads of Department in Election and Party Monitoring against interfering in the internal affairs of political parties.
“You are not directors of political parties. Yours is to monitor and report in line with the law,” he stated.
The INEC Chairman’s Chief Technical Adviser, Prof. Dimis Mai-Lafia, described the workshop as successful, noting that participants engaged in robust discussions and technical sessions aimed at improving electoral processes and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Development partners including the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, the European Union, Development Alternatives Incorporated and The Kukah Centre were commended for supporting the programme.
Country Director of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, Mr. Adebowale Olorunmola, called on political actors to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, promote issue-based campaigns and encourage greater participation of women, youths and persons with disabilities in the electoral process.
Participants expressed optimism that the training would improve political party administration, strengthen compliance with electoral regulations and enhance the monitoring of party primaries ahead of the 2027 General Election in Nigeria.
