Financial Autonomy Key to INEC’s Independence Ahead of 2027 Elections — Amupitan

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has called for greater financial autonomy for the electoral body, saying true institutional independence cannot be achieved while it remains dependent on the conventional budget approval process.

Amupitan made the remarks during the presentation of Shadows: Protest Essays on Africa’s Most Consequential Country (1999–2023) by THISDAY Managing Director, Eniola Bello, in Abuja.

He argued that strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system requires more than legal reforms, insisting that independent funding is essential to guarantee free, fair and credible elections.

“Can INEC truly be independent without financial autonomy? If we are serious about strengthening our institutions and conducting free, fair and credible elections, then financial autonomy is essential,” he said.

Although INEC’s funding is provided for under the Consolidated Revenue Fund, Amupitan said the commission’s dependence on the normal appropriation process limits its operational independence.

He explained: “The Constitution places INEC’s funding on the Consolidated Revenue Fund, and many believe that is sufficient. However, experience has shown that as long as INEC remains subject to the normal appropriation process and depends on budgetary approvals by other institutions, genuine financial independence remains difficult.”

The INEC chairman highlighted the commission’s broad responsibilities, including conducting federal and state elections, registering voters and political parties, monitoring political parties and maintaining the national voter register.

He added: “For these reasons, there is a strong case for giving INEC greater operational and financial autonomy to improve efficiency and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.”

Amupitan further emphasised that successful elections require collaboration among INEC, political parties, security agencies, civil society groups, the media and the electorate.

“Therefore, if we truly want the 2027 elections to be free, fair, credible and peaceful, all these institutions must work together,” he said.

On the appointment of INEC officials, Amupitan noted that the Constitution already contains adequate safeguards but argued that effective implementation remains the real challenge.

He also praised Eniola Bello’s publication as a valuable record of Nigeria’s democratic journey from 1999 to 2023, saying it provides useful lessons as preparations for the 2027 general election continue.

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