Adedayo Ekong, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) House of Representatives candidate for Eti-Osa Federal Constituency, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct the 2027 general elections with fairness, transparency and credibility.

Ms Ekong, who is also the national vice-chairman of the NDC, South-West, made the call in an interview on Monday in Lagos.

She said INEC has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that every vote cast during the elections counts and reflects the will of the electorate.

“INEC must remain fair, impartial and credible in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.

“Nigerians deserve an electoral process that is transparent and free from bias, intimidation or manipulation,” she said.

Ms Ekong added that the credibility of the electoral process would determine the level of public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.

She urged electoral officials to uphold the highest standards of professionalism throughout the exercise.

“The commission must ensure that election results truly reflect the votes cast by Nigerians. That is the only way confidence in our democracy can continue to grow,” she added.

The NDC chieftain said that peaceful elections could only be guaranteed when electoral outcomes genuinely represented the will of the people.

She said that any deviation from that principle could undermine public trust.

“Peace will prevail when the right and accurate results are announced.

“However, if the process lacks fairness and credibility, many Nigerians will lose confidence in the electoral system,” she said.

Ms Ekong also called on security agencies and election stakeholders to support INEC in creating an enabling environment that would allow voters to exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.

“Security agencies must remain neutral and professional, while political parties and their supporters should conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the elections,” she said.

She said that the NDC represents service to humanity.

“Leadership is about service. Leaders need to maintain close contact with constituents through regular consultations so that their interests are prioritised,” she said.

Ms Ekong urged Nigerians to remain peaceful, participate actively in the electoral process and vote according to their conscience.

She expressed optimism that credible elections would strengthen democratic governance and national development.

“Every eligible voter should come out and vote without fear.

“Together, we can build a stronger democracy through credible elections and accountable leadership,” she said.

(NAN).