INEC Chairman Warns Officials Against Procurement Breaches Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash O. Amupitan, has cautioned officials of the Commission against violating procurement laws, stressing that ignorance will no longer be accepted as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
Amupitan gave the warning at the conclusion of a three-day procurement training held in Lagos in collaboration with Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS).
He described the workshop as both timely and impactful, emphasizing that strict compliance with the Procurement Act is essential to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
According to him, the training improved the collective understanding of procurement procedures among members of the Commission’s Tender Board, enhancing coordination, transparency, and accountability in decision-making.
The INEC Chairman also disclosed that the Commission’s budget has been approved by the National Assembly, providing a strong foundation for procurement planning ahead of the 2027 polls.
He expressed appreciation to KAS for its continued support, noting that the partnership comes at a critical stage of the Commission’s preparations.
The training brought together National Commissioners, Directors, and senior staff, with expert sessions focusing on procurement communication, stakeholder management, and legal compliance.
Facilitators included Dr. Steve Ogidan, Chief Executive Officer of Successory Nigeria Ltd., and Prof. Adetunji O. Ogunyemi of Obafemi Awolowo University, who examined procurement law infractions and challenges arising from legal and judicial interventions.
Amupitan commended the facilitators for their insightful contributions and praised participants for their active engagement throughout the programme.
He also acknowledged the support of the Lagos State Resident Electoral Commissioner for ensuring smooth logistics.
The workshop ended with a renewed commitment by INEC officials to uphold procurement regulations and strengthen accountability, seen as a key pillar in delivering credible elections in 2027.
