The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has called on traditional rulers in Kogi State to support the commission's efforts to ensure peaceful, transparent and credible elections in 2027.
Amupitan appealed on Thursday during a meeting with traditional rulers representing the 21 local government areas of Kogi State in Lokoja.
The INEC chairman said the engagement was part of the commission's assessment of its personnel and infrastructure ahead of the 2027 general elections and the forthcoming off-cycle governorship election.
He urged traditional rulers to use their influence at the grassroots to promote peaceful participation, voter awareness and acceptance of credible electoral outcomes.
According to him, "the success of the electoral process requires cooperation between INEC and traditional institutions".
Amupitan also stressed the need for eligible voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards, while calling on the monarchs to discourage political violence and thuggery among youths.
He further urged traditional rulers to help address misinformation and disinformation capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission's commitment to strengthening its operational capacity through infrastructure upgrades and modern technological equipment.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Muhammad, pledged the council's support for INEC.
He, however, urged the commission to uphold fairness, transparency, accountability and strict adherence to the rule of law.
Amupitan's engagement with the traditional rulers formed part of INEC's wider preparations for the 2027 general elections.