The Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, has expressed support for the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) appeal to the Federal Government for the prompt release of its outstanding budgetary allocations ahead of the 2027 general elections. Yakubu stated that INEC's request is a necessary step towards ensuring credible, transparent, and efficient elections. He commended INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, for drawing attention to the financial requirements of the electoral process early enough.
Yakubu noted that the 2027 general elections will be a major national undertaking requiring careful planning, modern technology, effective logistics, adequate election materials, and robust security arrangements. He emphasized that adequate funding is essential to effective planning and the successful implementation of the commission's electoral timetable. INEC's request for funding should not be viewed as a favour but as an investment in the credibility and stability of Nigeria's democracy.
The Arewa Think Tank Convener mentioned that INEC has already demonstrated its commitment to preparations by completing nine of the 14 critical statutory milestones contained in its revised timetable. He stressed that the progress should be sustained by ensuring that the commission has access to the resources required to execute the remaining stages of the electoral process without unnecessary delays or disruptions.
Yakubu welcomed INEC's emphasis on election technology, logistics, sensitive materials, and security, describing them as fundamental requirements for the successful conduct of elections across Nigeria's 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and 774 local government areas. He stated that elections are too important to be left to last-minute arrangements and that early funding will enable INEC to plan, procure, test, and deploy the necessary infrastructure for the elections.
Yakubu appealed to the Federal Government to treat INEC's funding request with urgency and release the outstanding allocations in accordance with approved budgetary provisions. He stressed that providing INEC with the necessary resources would strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and enable the commission to remain focused on its statutory responsibilities.
The Arewa Think Tank Convener called on political parties, civil society organisations, the media, and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at ensuring that the 2027 elections are peaceful, credible, and acceptable to Nigerians. He emphasized that the responsibility for a successful election should not rest on INEC alone but requires cooperation among all stakeholders and a shared commitment to protecting Nigeria's democratic institutions.
Yakubu urged the Federal Government to respond positively to INEC's appeal, stressing that early and adequate funding would help prevent avoidable operational challenges and ensure that preparations for the 2027 elections remain on schedule. This, he believes, will also enable INEC to uphold transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to the law.
Key points
- Arewa Think Tank supports INEC's call for prompt release of budgetary allocations for 2027 general elections
- Adequate funding essential for credible, transparent, and efficient elections
- Early funding will enable INEC to plan and execute electoral process without unnecessary delays or disruptions
