2027: UNIZIK Alumni Urge INEC, Security Agencies To Ensure Credible Election

The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure a credible electoral process ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general election.

The association made the call during a road walk for good governance and credible elections in Abuja, organised as part of activities marking its 2026 International Convention. The group also urged Nigerians to participate actively in the electoral process and avoid voter apathy.

Global President of the association, Prof. Ikechukwu Umeh, said effective democracy requires citizens to participate in elections and exercise their civic responsibilities.

He called on political parties, INEC and voters to perform their respective roles within the law as preparations for the 2027 election continue. He also said the association was advocating for governance that would translate into tangible benefits for citizens.

The Chairman of the 2026 International Convention Planning Committee, Dr. Obinna Uyaemezina, urged INEC to strictly follow electoral rules and called for support for the commission to enable it conduct a free and fair election.

“When elections are free and fair, that is the only way one can say that there is democracy,” Uyaemezina said.

He linked good governance to issues that directly affect citizens, including poverty reduction, access to healthcare and education, quality roads and the protection of lives and property.

The FCT Chairperson of the alumni association, Mrs. Nonye Umeodika, also called on security agencies to remain impartial and avoid corruption and electoral malpractice during the election.

According to her, voters are more likely to participate when they have confidence in their safety at polling centres. She therefore encouraged Nigerians to come out and vote, warning that voter apathy could affect efforts to improve governance.

The call comes as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general election. INEC has already published its electoral timetable and confirmed that the presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while the governorship and State House of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.

INEC has also said that the success of the election will require the participation of government institutions, security agencies, political parties, the media, civil society organisations and citizens.

For the UNIZIK alumni association, the Abuja road walk was part of its wider advocacy for transparent governance and an electoral process that commands public confidence.

The association’s Media and Publicity Sub-Committee Chairman, Stanley Nwosu, urged INEC, government authorities and security agencies to take the necessary steps to ensure that the 2027 election is credible and acceptable to Nigerians.

With preparations for the 2027 election already underway, concerns about voter participation, electoral conduct and security are becoming part of the wider national conversation.

The UNIZIK alumni association’s appeal adds to calls for electoral stakeholders to follow established rules while encouraging citizens to participate in the process. The group also urged its members and other Nigerians to support efforts aimed at promoting transparent and credible elections.