INEC Calls on Nigerians to Safeguard Electoral Integrity Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is urging Nigerians to help maintain the integrity of elections as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. Sylvia Agu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Abia State, made this call during a media event in Umuahia.

Agu emphasized that misinformation and false narratives could damage public trust in elections. She stated that the success of the 2027 elections will depend not only on what happens at polling stations but also on the information that people receive and believe.

She pointed out that public confidence in the electoral process is declining, which poses a challenge for Nigeria. Agu noted that the credibility of elections is shaped by how voters perceive the conduct of the elections and the reliability of the information they receive.

INEC is working to improve transparency and restore public trust by enhancing its use of technology. This includes the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which Agu described as a key tool against electoral fraud. She stated that the BVAS played a crucial role in the 2023 elections by ensuring accurate voter registration.

Agu also mentioned that INEC is focusing on cybersecurity and protecting voter data. The commission is exploring the responsible use of artificial intelligence to improve its operations, but she stressed that AI will support human judgment rather than replace it.

To prepare for the upcoming elections, INEC has been testing its technology and training its staff to ensure they are ready. Agu acknowledged that past technical issues during the 2023 elections have prompted the commission to enhance its systems and training programs.

As INEC gears up for the 2027 elections, there is ongoing public discussion about the effectiveness of its technology and the need for greater transparency in the electoral process.