84% of Nigerians willing to vote in 2027 – Survey

A recent survey conducted by Yiaga Africa reveals that 84% of Nigerians are willing to participate in the 2027 general elections. However, concerns over insecurity, trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and confidence in dispute resolution could potentially deter voter turnout. The survey, which covered 2,470 respondents across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, found that only 47% of respondents were "very likely" to vote, while 61% expressed fear of violence preventing them from casting their ballots.

Insecurity emerged as the primary barrier to participation, with 82% of respondents expressing concern that it could impact the 2027 polls. While confidence in BVAS accreditation and IReV result transmission stands at 49%, only 34% trust INEC. The survey also revealed that 63% have little or no confidence in the judiciary's ability to resolve electoral disputes fairly, with this percentage rising to 81% in the South-South region.

Yiaga Africa's Chairman, Hussaini Abdu, emphasized the importance of addressing these gaps to improve voter intentions ahead of the elections. He urged political parties to assist in encouraging voter turnout, emphasizing the vital role they play in mobilizing their members and voters. Yiaga Africa's Head of Knowledge Management and Learning, Safiya Bichi, highlighted that although Nigerians are not giving up on elections, fear, distrust, and money are the main obstacles preventing them from going to the ballot box.

The organisation recommended that the Federal Government and security agencies publish a threat-based national election security plan and that INEC commit to real-time upload of all polling unit results to IReV.