The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has stated that it is fully prepared for the 2027 general election. According to Alhaji Shehu Wahab, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Kogi State, measures are being put in place to ensure a transparent, credible and technology-driven electoral process. INEC has progressively introduced innovations into its electoral processes, with technology set to play a major role in the 2027 general election.
One of the innovations introduced by INEC is the online self-service platform, which enables eligible Nigerians to commence and complete voter registration without visiting INEC registration centres. This move aims to make the electoral process more accessible and convenient for citizens. The commission is consolidating on the innovations introduced during the 2023 general election to improve the electoral process.
INEC has been implementing the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 election in line with the law. This includes the submission of political party registers, monitoring of party primaries and commencement of campaigns. The commission has also audited and conducted quality assurance on its Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS devices, to ensure they are in good working condition ahead of the election.
The Preliminary Register of Voters will be displayed across Registration Areas in Kogi State from October 9, 2026, for eligible voters to verify their details. This exercise will enable residents to check their names and correct errors such as misspelt names or other discrepancies in their voter information. The display of the register is a crucial step in ensuring the accuracy of the voter list.
INEC will also commence the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, to newly registered voters and those who transferred or replaced their cards from October 9 to 15. This move aims to ensure that eligible voters have the necessary documentation to participate in the electoral process. The commission is working to ensure that all eligible voters have access to PVCs.
On security, INEC is collaborating with security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, ICCES, to ensure a peaceful electoral process. Political party leaders in Kogi State have been engaged on the rules guiding campaigns and have signed a peace accord as part of efforts to prevent violence. The REC described the people of Kogi State as peace-loving, noting that previous incidents of electoral violence occurred in few polling units across the state.
The REC urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to abide by the rules and work with INEC and security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible 2027 general election. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and compliance with electoral regulations to guarantee a successful election. INEC is working to ensure that the 2027 general election is conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.
Key points
- INEC has introduced innovations such as online self-service voter registration and audited BVAS devices to ensure a credible electoral process.
