The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has strengthened its collaboration with the National Peace Committee (NPC) as part of efforts to safeguard the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections. The engagement took place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja, where members of the National Peace Committee met with the
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has strengthened its collaboration with the National Peace Committee (NPC) as part of efforts to safeguard the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
The engagement took place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja, where members of the National Peace Committee met with the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, alongside National Commissioners, technical aides and senior management staff.
Discussions during the meeting focused largely on the security climate in the FCT, particularly in view of the February 21 Area Council elections. Both parties examined emerging risks and considered measures to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
Professor Amupitan described the visit as timely, explaining that the Commission had recently concluded consultations with critical stakeholders, including security agencies, political parties, civil society organisations and the media, as part of its final preparations for the elections.
He emphasised the collective duty to guarantee peace during the electoral period.
“Let me specifically appreciate you for establishing the Election Security Information Hub to complement our efforts.
“I listened carefully to your analysis of the security landscape in the Federal Capital Territory and observed that AMAC is an area requiring special scrutiny and attention, as well as Gwagwalada, Kuje and Bwari.
“We have noted the points you made, particularly regarding Gwagwalada and Kuje, which you described as the ‘elephants in the town’. On our part, the Planning and Monitoring Department has also conducted its own mapping and analysis.
“It is imperative that we share information, learn from one another and implement best practices that have proven effective.
“Let us use this opportunity to discuss strategies that will ensure upcoming elections are conducted in a manner that reflects the will of the people, free from violence and destruction.
“Through unity and collaboration, we can build a resilient framework that not only supports the electoral process but also fosters lasting peace within our communities,” Amupitan stated.
The INEC Chairman further noted that the Commission had taken seriously the Committee’s concerns regarding potential electoral violence and would not treat them lightly.
“We will share this with our security partners so that they can take the necessary steps as we navigate the complexities of security in today’s political climate.
“We are aware that elections can often be fraught with tension and potential conflict. However, with proactive and strategic partnership, we can create an environment conducive to safe and credible elections.”
Beyond the immediate FCT poll, Amupitan highlighted that 2026 represents a strategic build-up to the 2027 General Election, stressing the importance of early and sustained collaboration to address evolving security threats.
“We regard 2026 as our preparatory year for the 2027 General Election,” the Chairman stated. “The responsibility we share in maintaining peace and security during this period is paramount. With proactive and strategic partnership, we can create an environment conducive to safe and credible elections.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Director of the Kukah Centre and Head of Secretariat of the National Peace Committee, Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to supporting INEC not only for the FCT election but also for upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, as well as preparations for the 2027 general polls.
He disclosed that the Committee’s Election Security Information Hub, established last year, has built nationwide networks to gather and analyse data on insecurity, violence and conflict patterns, including those directly related to elections or capable of influencing the process.
“The objective is to ensure that all interventions undertaken by the Committee are guided strictly by data and evidence, rather than sentiment or partisan considerations,” Barkindo disclosed.
Also speaking, the Project Manager of the Kukah Centre, Ms. Asabe, characterised the FCT election as a mirror through which Nigerians would assess the country’s level of readiness for the 2027 General Election
