2027 Elections: INEC Raises Alarm Over Potential Risks, Calls For Early Preparations

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Oluwatoyin Babalola, has emphasised the need for thorough preparation, effective coordination and strong stakeholder commitment to ensure the successful conduct of elections in Nigeria.

Babalola made the remarks on Thursday during INEC’s workshop on election risk management held in Osogbo, as part of efforts to strengthen electoral preparedness and cooperation among stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the workshop was organised to identify possible risks that could disrupt the electoral process and develop practical strategies for addressing challenges before and during elections.

The Osun REC explained that INEC had continued to create opportunities for relevant stakeholders to understand their respective responsibilities, improve institutional relationships and work together towards achieving credible elections.

She described the workshop as particularly important given the commission’s ongoing preparations for the 2027 general elections, noting that it provided participants with an opportunity to exchange experiences, share ideas and clarify expectations.

Babalola stressed that effective election risk management required stakeholders to remain proactive and responsive while carrying out their assigned duties throughout the electoral process.

She further highlighted the importance of identifying potential challenges early and developing coordinated measures to prevent or minimise their impact, adding that proper communication and cooperation were essential to successful electoral planning.

The REC urged participants to engage actively in the workshop sessions, remain open to new ideas and learn from one another, expressing confidence that the discussions would improve their understanding of electoral risks and appropriate response strategies.

INEC explained that the engagement formed part of its broader efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and improve collaboration among organisations and individuals involved in election administration.

Participants included members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), INEC’s Administrative Secretary, heads of departments and electoral officers from the commission’s 30 local government offices across Osun State.

Representatives of civil society organisations and other INEC officials also attended the workshop, which brought together key stakeholders responsible for different aspects of electoral administration and security ahead of the 2027 general elections.