2027 polls: 50% Nigerians lack confidence in INEC — Group

Amupitan

AHEAD of the 2027 general elections, Conveners of GoNigeria, yesterday, stated that credible electoral reform remains urgent and unavoidable. It also called for the strengthening of public confidence in the electoral process. GoNigeria, in a statement titled ‘Electoral reform and the sanctity of Nigeria’s democratic future’, by its convener, Mr Atedo Peterside and 24 others, noted that electoral reforms, judicial reforms and freedom of speech, among others, are critical for Nigeria’s democracy.

The group, however, lamented that surveys have shown that less than 50 percent of Nigerians have confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The statement reads: “Four pillars are critical for Nigeria’s democracy: electoral reform, judicial reform, freedom of speech, and the security of life and property. These pillars are the practical guardrails required for a democracy that is durable and productive.

“Among these pillars, electoral reform is foundational. Elections do not simply select leaders; they determine whether power is accepted as legitimate, whether institutions are trusted, and whether governance will be effective. Where elections are credible, authority is strengthened.

“This understanding was clearly articulated by the Justice Mohammed Uwais-led Electoral Reform Committee, whose recommendations emphasised independence of the electoral body, transparency, credible dispute resolution, and firm enforcement of electoral rules.

“Subsequent reforms centered on the adoption of digital tools, including biometric voter registration, Permanent Voters’ Cards, and electronic accreditation. These innovations reflected institutional intent and public demand: technology as a guardrail against manipulation and a basis for public confidence.