INEC Chair Amupitan proposes use of drones to monitor elections

Nominated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, has proposed the deployment of drones to enhance election monitoring and strengthen logistics during future polls.

Amupitan made the suggestion on Thursday while responding to a question from Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North) during his Senate screening.

Senator Kalu had expressed concern about the growing security challenges across the country and asked how the nominee intended to safeguard the movement of sensitive election materials to polling units.

In his response, Amupitan acknowledged that insecurity poses a major obstacle to credible elections but emphasised that it can be effectively managed through technology and stronger coordination with security agencies.

“The issue of security is a major challenge, but it can be tackled. I am aware that there is a joint committee on election security. One of our priorities will be to work closely with that committee to address threats in vulnerable areas,” Amupitan said.

He added that INEC under his leadership would prioritise logistics innovation to ensure election materials are delivered promptly and securely nationwide.

“We can invest more in logistics and technology, even if it means deploying drones or similar tools, to make sure materials reach their destinations safely and on time,” he stated.