The Ogun State governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Tpl. Babajide Rotimi, has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its efforts towards strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Rotimi, in an open letter dated October 6, 2026 and addressed to the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), also praised the Commission’s Legal Department for what he described as its “excellent and diligent work” in supporting the electoral process.
He said the legal arm of INEC had continued to play a critical role in defending the integrity of the nation’s electoral system through professionalism and diligence.
The APM candidate also commended the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ogun State, Mrs Saseyi Feyijimi Ibiyemi, for her efforts in the state, urging the Commission to sustain its commitment to professionalism and neutrality.
Rotimi said recent electoral processes, particularly the Osun State governorship election, had provided Nigerians with an opportunity to assess INEC’s commitment to due process and credible elections.
According to him, Nigerians are looking towards the electoral umpire with renewed expectations as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
“With Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, at the helm of affairs, I believe the Commission has an important opportunity to further strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s electoral democracy,” he said.
The governorship candidate also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing an environment for INEC to discharge its constitutional responsibilities without undue interference.
He urged the Federal Government to continue to provide the Commission with the necessary independence and institutional space to conduct the 2027 elections impartially.
Rotimi said that although, as a political candidate, he was committed to participating in the democratic process and respecting institutions established to conduct elections, his broader interest as a Nigerian remained the emergence of a credible electoral process that reflected the genuine will of the people.
He urged INEC’s leadership, Resident Electoral Commissioners, Legal Department and other officials to approach the 2027 elections with wisdom, courage and dedication.
He expressed optimism that the 2027 general elections would become “a celebration of democracy, the triumph of the people’s will, and a new milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey.”
