INEC Uses Osun Election as Benchmark for 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has designated the recently concluded Osun State governorship election as a benchmark for its preparations for the 2027 general election. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, made this announcement on Friday during a courtesy visit from David Sproule, the Chargé d’Affaires of Canada to Nigeria, at INEC's headquarters in Abuja.

Amupitan noted that the Osun election, held on August 15, demonstrated significant improvements, with 94.5% of polling units opening by 8:30 am, optimal BVAS performance, and effective crisis management. He emphasized that the success in Osun would guide INEC's preparations, which have already begun, including the commencement of public campaigns on August 19.

Amupitan outlined five strategic focus areas for INEC ahead of the elections, including technological gains and conducting a nationwide mock accreditation exercise in November 2026. He also mentioned the need for approximately 1.4 million ad-hoc personnel for the elections and the establishment of a dedicated AI unit to enhance electoral processes.