NIGERIA | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | UNFOLDING

-Special Report-

Nigeria's Road to 2027 Elections – Activities Unfolding and INEC’s Standpoint

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, political activities are intensifying across the country. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun laying the groundwork for what promises to be a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Here's a comprehensive update on the unfolding developments and INEC’s position on key issues.

Political Activities Already Unfolding

• Formation of New Political Parties
• INEC has received applications from 151 political associations seeking registration as parties.
• Shortlisting is underway, with announcements expected after the August 16 by-elections.
• Early Campaigns and Political Realignments
• Despite INEC’s embargo on early politicking, several parties and groups have begun mobilizing for 2027.
• The South-West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) is actively promoting President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
• Internal tensions are rising within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as some members publicly endorse Tinubu, prompting threats of sanctions.
• Calls for Restructuring and National Unity

• Prominent voices like John Nnia Nwodo have warned that failure to restructure Nigeria before 2027 could lead to disintegration.
• Concerns over the centralization of power and lack of regional autonomy are fueling debates on constitutional reform.

INEC’s Strategic Preparations and Standpoint

• Election Project Plan (EPP) for 2027
• INEC has launched a new Election Project Plan (EPP) to address logistical and technical challenges from the 2023 elections.
• The plan includes a 2027–2031 Strategic Framework, replacing the current 2022–2026 plan.
• Focus areas include:
• Improved result transmission systems
• Enhanced logistics and personnel deployment
• Better voter education and inclusivity
• Continuous Voter Registration (CVR)
• INEC will resume nationwide CVR from August 18, 2025, with in-person registration starting August 25.
• Registration will run until August 30, 2026, across 811 centres, including all LGAs and state offices.
• Commitment to Inclusivity
• INEC has partnered with organizations like TAF Africa and the Nigerian Women Trust Fund to train Gender and Disability Desk Officers.
• Assistive devices such as braille ballots, magnifying glasses, and sign language posters have been provided to polling units with registered Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
• INEC affirms that no citizen will be excluded based on gender, ability, or social standing.
• Security and Electoral Integrity

• INEC has expressed concern over premature campaigns and their potential to exacerbate insecurity.
• Former DSS Director Mike Ejiofor emphasized that 80% of Nigeria’s insecurity is politically driven, urging INEC to enforce its rules more strictly.

Let's Take A Break 

INEC’s proactive stance and strategic planning signal a strong commitment to delivering a credible, inclusive, and secure 2027 election. However, the political landscape remains volatile, with early campaigns, internal party conflicts, and calls for restructuring shaping the national discourse. As the countdown begins, all eyes are on INEC to uphold democratic principles and ensure every Nigerian voice is heard.