Atiku questions ballot contract, alleged redeployments at INEC HQ

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called for complete transparency from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding reported changes in key departments and the handling of sensitive materials for the 2027 general elections. According to Atiku, the reassignments within the Electoral Operations Department, including the move of Director Isa Magaji Gum to the Voter Registry Department and the appointment of Mrs Oluyemi Titilayo Adeyemi-Showunmi, are raising serious concerns.

In a statement by his Director of Strategic Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku emphasized that INEC must explain these decisions, publish the criteria applied, and demonstrate that all appointments and redeployments followed due process and were merit-based. Atiku also demanded confirmation or denial from INEC whether Hitech or any associated company was awarded a contract to print sensitive materials for the 2027 elections.

He expressed concern over reports suggesting that the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc (NSPMC) may only handle printing for 15 to 17 states, while private companies handle the rest. Atiku warned that any attempt to manipulate the election process would not be tolerated, stating that Nigerians will resist any subversion of their votes through peaceful and democratic means.

He urged INEC to utilize domestic security-printing capacity and ensure a transparent chain of custody for every ballot paper and sensitive document.