INEC rules out shifting 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly ruled out any possibility of delaying the 2027 general elections, reinforcing the fixed electoral timetable and emphasizing that preparations are progressing as planned. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, announced during an interactive session with INEC staff and Resident Electoral Commissioners from the six South-South states that the commission would release the final voters' register on December 15, following the completion of its ongoing verification and correction process.

Amupitan addressed concerns raised by some political parties about a possible postponement of the elections, firmly stating that the commission is committed to adhering to the law and its predetermined schedule. He highlighted that Rivers State, with its 3,736,434 registered voters, would receive special attention due to its electoral significance and large voter base, followed by Delta with 3,525,988 and Edo with 2,865,263 registered voters.

The chairman assured that INEC would take measures to prevent operational failures from disenfranchising voters, particularly in states with significant voter populations. He also disclosed that the commission had received more than 5,000 requests for corrections and over 600 objections to the voters' register, which were being processed ahead of the final release.

Amupitan expressed confidence in INEC's ability to conduct a peaceful, transparent, and credible election, citing the successful Osun State governorship election as evidence. The commission would incorporate lessons learned from recent off-cycle elections to enhance preparations for the 2027 general elections. INEC is collaborating with security agencies to ensure the safety of voters, electoral personnel, and election materials, emphasizing that the electorate, not AI or algorithms, will determine the election outcome.