As the search for a new chairperson of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) heats up ahead of the 2027 general election, both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties have released a set of demands and expectations.
The APC insists the next INEC leader should ensure timely and transparent election logistics, especially in remote regions, to avoid the delays and logistical breakdowns observed in previous polls. They also want an INEC head who can uphold the electoral body’s independence and shield it from what they call “political pressure.”
On the opposition side, leaders are pushing for increased confidence measures such as real-time result transmission, improved witness access at polling stations, thorough oversight of newly registered parties, and strict enforcement of election laws. Some opposition figures have expressed concern about INEC’s willingness under current leadership to register new opposition coalitions and maintain neutrality.
Both sides agree that the credibility of the electoral process is critical if Nigeria is to avoid post-election unrest and maintain democratic trust.
