INEC Proposes ₦873.78 Billion Budget for 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its plans for the 2027 general elections, proposing a total budget of ₦873.78 billion. Malam Moham Haruna, the Director of ICT at INEC, stated that the commission is currently waiting for the federal government to release the necessary funds, which are required at least six months before the elections, as per the Electoral Act of 2026.

Despite the delay in funding, INEC has begun preparations, including the procurement of new electoral materials and the replacement of damaged voter accreditation machines. Haruna emphasized that the high budget is influenced by the reliance on foreign materials and fluctuating exchange rates.

He also noted the challenges faced during the recent Ekiti governorship election due to last-minute court injunctions that disrupted electoral plans. INEC plans to conduct a mock presidential election to test its technology, achieving a 98% accreditation rate during the Ekiti election.