INEC Begins Preparations for 2027 Elections, Promises Better Voting Process

(INEC. Photo Credit: Punch News)

The Independent National Electoral Commission has assured Nigerians that it is taking practical steps to make the 2027 general elections free, fair, inclusive and credible.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, gave the assurance on Friday in Akure at the 2026 edition of a political programme called The Convocation, themed Electioneering and the Future of Nigeria's Democracy.

He was represented by the Head of Voter Education, Publicity, Gender and Inclusivity, Olayinka Ogunseye.

He said the commission is already testing the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System devices that will be used in 2027.

INEC will also hold a test run, similar to a mock election, in November.

It plans to step up voter education and sensitisation to get more people involved.

Ondo State chairman of the Young Progressives Party, Dotun Ojon, urged Nigerians to take part actively in the electoral process, saying elections decide how the country is governed.

He said the YPP is focusing on winning seats in the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly rather than only the presidential race.

He also called for more chances for smaller parties to win legislative seats, saying a strong opposition is needed for accountability.

Former Ondo State Commissioner for Sports, Dayo Awude, said elections are central to democracy and urged stakeholders to work together on the challenges.

He named the high cost of electioneering and lack of internal democracy in parties as problems to fix.

He said things are better than before and the country is moving one step at a time.

He urged citizens not to lose faith and said he expects 2027 to improve on the problems seen in 2023.

The programme's convener, Henry Olonimoyo, stressed the need for ongoing dialogue so young Nigerians do not lose interest in democracy.

He said the platform lets citizens voice their views and lets elected officials and other leaders speak directly with the people.

He noted that many young Nigerians have never lived under military rule and are growing tired of democracy, which makes civic education and engagement important.