FCT Polls: INEC Puts EFCC, ICPC, Police on Alert Over Vote-Buying
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has directed anti-corruption and security agencies to remain vigilant against vote-buying and vote trading ahead of the February 21 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
Amupitan issued the charge on Wednesday while hosting a delegation from the National Peace Committee at INEC headquarters in Abuja.
He said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigeria Police had been specifically placed on alert to curb electoral malpractice.
“We specifically charged the Nigeria Police, the EFCC, and also the ICPC to be on guard so that we can arrest the menace of vote-buying and what some people call ‘vote trading’,” he said.
The INEC chairman assured that the commission would act swiftly on security intelligence and risk assessments presented by the National Peace Committee.
“You have presented to us a great piece of information. We are not going to take it for granted,” Amupitan said, adding that the intelligence would be reviewed and shared with relevant security departments for necessary action.
He disclosed that the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) would receive “special scrutiny and attention,” alongside Bwari and Kuje Area Councils, based on identified risks.
Amupitan described political activities this year as critical groundwork for the 2027 general elections.
“We regard this year as our preparatory year for the 2027 general election,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of the Peace Accord signed by political parties, describing it as a binding social contract committing parties to peaceful conduct and acceptance of election outcomes.
Leader of the National Peace Committee delegation, Rev. Atta Barkindo, apologised for delays in formally engaging with INEC’s new leadership and pledged continued collaboration.
He said the committee’s Election Security and Information Hub, launched last year, has established networks and field agents across states to gather verified data on insecurity, violence and conflict trends.
According to the committee’s findings, AMAC, Gwagwalada, Bwari, and Kuje Area Councils were identified as potential flashpoints.
AMAC was flagged for high tendencies of vote-buying and political threats, while Gwagwalada faces indigene-settler tensions and a history of political thuggery, particularly in Jiwa community.
Bwari was described as vulnerable due to farmer-herder clashes, kidnapping and limited security presence, while Kwali was identified as at risk because of security challenges in neighbouring states.
Barkindo stressed that the committee’s interventions are evidence-based and guided strictly by verified data, not partisan interests.
As preparations intensify for the FCT polls, INEC says it is determined to work closely with security agencies and civil society partners to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. Read More
