The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering a comprehensive audit of its electoral technology systems and a mock presidential election as part of efforts to improve preparations for the 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this during a meeting with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. He said the proposed measures are aimed at testing the reliability of electoral systems and improving public confidence ahead of the next polls.
According to the INEC chairman, the commission is reviewing its technological infrastructure following concerns that emerged during the 2023 general elections, particularly issues relating to the performance of election technology platforms.
Amupitan said the commission is exploring the possibility of conducting an independent audit of its systems to identify possible weaknesses and ensure that all technological components are ready before the 2027 elections. He added that a mock presidential election could also be organised to simulate the electoral process and assess the effectiveness of the systems before they are deployed nationwide.
The proposed audit is expected to examine various aspects of INEC’s digital infrastructure, including election management systems, cybersecurity measures and other technology-based processes used during elections. The commission believes that early assessment will help address potential challenges and prevent disruptions during future electoral exercises.
The move comes after criticism that followed the 2023 presidential election, when technical difficulties affected the uploading of some results through the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV). The development generated concerns among political parties, observers and citizens over the reliability of the commission’s election technology.
INEC has maintained that lessons from previous elections are being considered in planning for future polls. The commission said improving technology, strengthening cybersecurity and ensuring efficient election management remain key priorities as preparations for 2027 continue.
During the meeting, the INEC chairman also emphasised the importance of international cooperation in strengthening electoral systems. He said partnerships with countries such as the United Kingdom could provide valuable support in areas including election security, technology development and capacity building.
Political analysts say the proposed technology review could help improve confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process if carried out transparently. They noted that modern elections increasingly depend on secure digital systems, making regular assessments and improvements necessary for credible outcomes.
Observers also believe that conducting a mock election before the 2027 polls could allow INEC to identify operational gaps, test procedures and improve coordination among officials, technology providers and other stakeholders.
However, experts have stressed that technology alone cannot guarantee credible elections. They noted that factors such as transparency, effective communication, voter education, security and compliance with electoral laws are equally important in ensuring public trust.
As political activities gradually increase ahead of the 2027 elections, INEC has continued to assure Nigerians that it is committed to improving the electoral process. The commission says early preparation, system testing and collaboration with relevant stakeholders will be central to delivering elections that meet democratic expectations.
The planned audit and mock presidential election, if approved and implemented, will form part of INEC’s broader strategy to strengthen election readiness and avoid technical challenges that could affect future polls.
