Funding Delays Threaten Nigeria's 2027 Elections Credibility

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is facing funding delays that could jeopardize preparations for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria. Political parties, including the African Democratic Congress and the People's Democratic Party, have expressed concerns that these delays may disrupt the electoral timeline and erode public confidence in the electoral process.

Moham Haruna, the state commissioner, indicated that the commission has not yet received the budgetary release for the elections, which is critical for procuring necessary materials and technology. INEC's proposed budget for the 2027 elections is ₦873.78 billion, aimed at covering operational costs and technological deployment.

The commission has begun preparations in line with the electoral act, which mandates fund release at least six months before elections. Concerns about the impact of these delays on the integrity of the electoral process were echoed by Bolaji Abdullahi and Tanimu Turaki, who warned that failure to adequately fund INEC could derail the elections.