The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), has warned staff against partisan politics, insisting that the commission will not tolerate unprofessional or unethical conduct before, during and after the 2027 general elections.

Amupitan issued the warning in Enugu during an interactive session with more than 600 INEC staff from the Southeast as part of the commission’s zonal readiness assessment ahead of the polls.

He urged electoral officers to maintain neutrality in their words and actions, warning that displaying political affiliations could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

“You should not pick interest in any political party: be neutral and firm.

“I am hearing that some of you are showing interest in some political parties. This is absolutely wrong,” he said.

The INEC chairman disclosed that the commission had introduced a reward and sanction mechanism covering personnel at the local government, state and national levels.

He urged staff to remain disciplined, diligent and impartial, stressing the need to strengthen public trust in the commission’s ability to conduct credible elections.

Amupitan also said INEC was working to improve staff welfare through a proposed special salary structure expected to take effect on January 1, 2027, subject to the necessary cash backing.

“We want the new salary structure so that you will not easily be induced before, during and after the election,” he said.

He added that the commission was engaging relevant government agencies to secure the funding needed to implement the proposed salary structure.

On preparations for the 2027 elections, Amupitan said INEC had begun receiving election materials and awarding contracts for additional supplies and facility upgrades.

He disclosed that the commission’s Enugu State office had received 10 new pickup vans, with more vehicles and logistical support expected.

“We have got our non-sensitive materials ready, while we are awarding contracts for other materials needed in the election as well as sensitive materials,” he said.

The chairman said INEC would soon begin extensive training and retraining for personnel, particularly on new guidelines and regulations introduced under the amended Electoral Act.

He explained that the commission was developing training materials staff could access beyond face-to-face sessions. Selected personnel would also be trained to transfer the knowledge to other election workers.

Amupitan described the 2027 general election as a critical test of INEC’s preparedness, noting that efficient logistics, professionalism and proper management of election results were essential to credible polls.

The Enugu meeting is part of the commission’s nationwide physical assessment tour, following similar exercises in the Southwest, Northcentral and Northwest.

The chairman was also scheduled to meet traditional rulers and other electoral stakeholders in the Southeast to promote peaceful elections through stronger collaboration with community leaders.