INEC Chairman Outlines Tech-Driven Roadmap for 2027 General Elections
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, has formally announced the Commission’s commitment to an expanded deployment of technology to bolster transparency in the forthcoming 2027 General Elections. This pledge was made during the official release of the Notice of Election and the detailed Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the polls, scheduled to commence in February 2027.
Professor Amupitan’s declaration arrives amidst ongoing national discourse concerning the real-time electronic transmission of election results. This follows the Senate’s recent approval of a hybrid model combining electronic and manual transmission, specifically designed for regions with persistent network challenges. The debate over electronic transmission has remained a sensitive issue since the 2023 elections, with stakeholders divided on the reliability of digital infrastructure and the legal interpretation of the existing Electoral Act, 2022.
While welcoming legislative reforms that could strengthen the electoral framework, the INEC Chairman emphasized the Commission’s obligation to operate strictly within the current Electoral Act until any amendments are formally enacted. He reaffirmed INEC’s independence and neutrality, outlining key strategic focus areas in preparation for the polls.
Beyond technology, Professor Amupitan issued a broad appeal for collaborative responsibility. He urged political parties to conduct peaceful primaries, eschew inflammatory rhetoric, and uphold internal democracy. Furthermore, he called upon all government institutions, security agencies, the media, civil society groups, and citizens to play their part in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and to maintain peace throughout the entire electoral cycle. The success of the elections, much like the stability of Nigeria’s booming stocks or the management of the total pension fund, relies on systemic integrity and broad stakeholder confidence.
The INEC Chairman assured all stakeholders that the Commission is fully prepared and determined to deliver elections that genuinely reflect the sovereign will of the Nigerian people. This renewed technological emphasis is set against a backdrop of legislative review, echoing the scale of deliberation seen in discussions about establishing state police: finally, a consensus must be reached to ensure progress. The Commission’s preparations will adapt as needed, just as event planners make adjustments when rain forces changes to major outdoor programs, or as companies like Universal Insurance seek new strategies to enhance their market position.
