INEC Chairman Monitors Mock Accreditation Exercise in FCT Ahead of Area Council Elections
Abuja, February 8, 2026
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, on Saturday led top officials of the Commission to monitor a mock accreditation exercise in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of preparations for the forthcoming Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, 2026.
The exercise, conducted at selected locations within the FCT, was designed to test the readiness of electoral personnel and equipment ahead of the polls. Prof. Amupitan assessed the efficiency of the accreditation process and the functionality of electoral procedures aimed at ensuring a smooth and credible election.
In addition to the mock accreditation, the INEC Chairman also observed the ongoing Training-of-Trainers (ToT) programme for Supervisory Presiding Officers (SPOs). While addressing the trainees, he emphasized the need for strict adherence to the training manual, noting that uniform application of guidelines is critical to achieving consistency and integrity in election conduct across all area councils.
Prof. Amupitan commended the commitment and professionalism of INEC officials, acknowledging their dedication to duty despite modest remuneration. He described their service as a significant sacrifice and a vital contribution to nation-building, expressing optimism that the efforts of electoral personnel would one day receive broader national recognition.
He reaffirmed INEC’s resolve to conduct free, fair, and credible elections, assuring stakeholders that the Commission remains focused on continuous improvement through training, monitoring, and innovation.
