2027 : INEC To Test Reliability Of Its Technical Systems

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC says it is considering conducting a comprehensive audit of all its electoral technology systems ahead of 2027 general election.

INEC Chairman Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan who stated this in Abuja while receiving the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, also noted that the Commission might conduct a mock Presidential Election to test it’s readiness before the polls.

Professor Amupitan said the proposals were as a result of concerns arising from the 2023 general election, particularly regarding the reliability of election technology.

He said though the proposed exercises were not originally captured in the Commission’s budget, it would explore ways to actualise them if required.

The INEC Chairman said that the Commission would continue to address any gaps identified from previous elections ahead of the 2027 elections as public confidence depended on the reliability of the electoral processes and technology.

He said that the Commission would continue to collaborate with the United Kingdom and other technical partners on Cyber security and election technology.

Earlier, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Montgomery said his team had been keenly following INEC’s preparations for the 2027 general election, including updates on off-cycle elections as well as ongoing preparations for the Osun State governorship election.

He described the UK Government’s interest in Nigeria’s democratic process as a demonstration of both moral and practical support.

Dr Montgomery assured the Commission of continued support from the British High Commission in the run-up to the 2027 general election.

Kayode Oyedare, Edited By Grace Namiji