A former presidential aide, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has outlined key reforms and institutional measures he believes the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must adopt to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in the 2027 general polls.
Baba-Ahmed, who has been a prominent voice in Nigeria’s democratic discourse, said the credibility of the electoral process would depend largely on INEC’s ability to strengthen transparency, resist political pressure, and improve logistical efficiency across the country.
He noted that while Nigeria has made progress in electoral reforms over the years, persistent challenges such as logistical delays, technological glitches, voter intimidation, and low public trust continue to threaten the integrity of elections.
According to him, restoring confidence in the electoral system requires deliberate institutional discipline and strict adherence to the provisions of the Electoral Act, particularly in areas relating to result transmission, collation procedures, and the use of technology.
Baba-Ahmed emphasized that the deployment of technology, including electronic transmission of results and biometric voter verification systems, must be consistently applied and protected from manipulation or administrative compromise.
He also stressed the importance of early planning and timely deployment of electoral materials to remote and high-risk areas, warning that logistical failures in previous elections had contributed to voter disenfranchisement in several states.
“In order to conduct credible elections in 2027, INEC must demonstrate complete independence in both perception and practice,” he said, adding that public confidence is as important as operational efficiency.
The former presidential aide further called for stronger collaboration between INEC, security agencies, and civil society organisations to ensure peaceful conduct during elections, particularly in regions with a history of electoral violence.
He urged security agencies to adopt a non-partisan posture and ensure that their presence at polling units is focused strictly on protecting voters and electoral officials rather than influencing outcomes.
Baba-Ahmed also highlighted the need for continuous voter education, noting that many Nigerians remain unaware of electoral procedures, which can lead to apathy or confusion during voting exercises.
He argued that civic awareness campaigns should be intensified ahead of the 2027 elections to encourage higher voter turnout and reduce invalid ballots.
The political commentator further suggested that internal reforms within INEC, including staff training and accountability mechanisms, would be essential in improving efficiency and reducing errors during the electoral process.
He warned that failure to address systemic weaknesses could undermine public trust and fuel post-election disputes, which often place additional strain on Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Baba-Ahmed’s comments come amid growing public debate over the preparedness of electoral institutions ahead of 2027, as political parties intensify early mobilisation and strategic positioning.
Observers say concerns over election credibility remain central to Nigeria’s democratic discourse, particularly following contentious electoral cycles in previous years.
INEC has repeatedly assured Nigerians of its commitment to conducting transparent and credible elections, pledging to build on reforms introduced in recent electoral cycles.
As preparations for 2027 gradually take shape, stakeholders continue to call for sustained improvements in electoral administration, security coordination, and public engagement to strengthen the integrity of the democratic process.
For Baba-Ahmed, the success of the 2027 elections will ultimately depend on whether institutions rise above political pressures and deliver a process that reflects the genuine will of the electorate.
