- Tinubu Assures Bishops of Credible 2027 Elections
- Says Electoral Body Will Remain Neutral Ahead of 2027 Polls
- Says INEC Has Never Intimidated Any Party, Promises Better Security
President Bola Tinubu has defended the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), insisting that the electoral body remains neutral ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the President stated this on Tuesday while receiving the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Ndagoso, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Nearly 30 Years Later, Who Really Knows How Abacha Died?
- Tinubu Govt Dismisses Reports of Fresh Electricity Tariff Increase
- Traditional Rulers Remain Key Partners in Lagos Development – Sanwo-Olu
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the bishops urged the Federal Government to ensure the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in 2027, describing credible polls as one of the enduring legacies expected from the Tinubu administration.
Responding, Tinubu dismissed concerns over INEC’s neutrality, saying the commission had not intimidated any political party or candidate.
“INEC is neutral. They have never intimidated anyone. If political opponents are crying wolf, maybe they are afraid of their own shadows and uncertainty in the company they keep, not me,” the President said.
On security, Tinubu said his administration was strengthening the country’s security architecture through improved intelligence gathering, restructuring security institutions and better welfare for security personnel.
He disclosed that he had approved the expansion of the armed forces, including the acquisition of more equipment and the construction of new barracks to intensify the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
“I have just approved the expansion of the armed forces. We are getting more equipment, building new barracks. We will defeat terrorism. It should be part of your sermons,” he said.
The President also expressed optimism about the country’s economic outlook, saying his administration had stabilised the economy and laid the foundation for growth.
“This government has stabilised, and there is prosperity on the horizon. Life is improving,” Tinubu stated.
He further pointed to the absence of prolonged industrial actions by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), noting that students could now complete their university programmes within the normal duration.
“You can’t say a four-year course in the university is not four years now. ASUU is not on strike. They are not bringing agony to our homes,” he added.
