INEC's Prof. Rhoda Gumus Ensures Credible 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), under the leadership of Acting Chairman Prof. Rhoda Gumus, has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting transparent, credible, inclusive, and peaceful general elections in 2027. This assurance was given on Tuesday during a meeting with a delegation from the African Union (AU) Pre-Election Needs Assessment Mission, led by former Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen, at the INEC headquarters.

The AU delegation aims to assess Nigeria's preparedness for the upcoming elections, identify potential gaps, and determine areas for technical support. Gumus emphasized the importance of this visit for peer assessment and institutional learning, stating that INEC values its partnership with the AU in promoting democratic standards.

She noted that the Commission has begun extensive operational, technological, and logistical preparations for the elections, drawing lessons from recent off-cycle elections in Anambra, the Federal Capital Territory, Ekiti, and Osun states. Key areas for potential AU support include training ad hoc election personnel on digital tools and countering election-related disinformation.