Opposition Parties Raise Alarm Over INEC Funding Delay Ahead of 2027 Polls, Commission Dismisses Concerns

Major opposition political parties have expressed concern over the delayed release of funds to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), warning that the situation could affect preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) cautioned that any prolonged delay in funding could disrupt critical procurement processes, undermine public confidence and threaten the smooth conduct of the elections.

However, INEC has dismissed the concerns, insisting that preparations for the polls remain on course despite not yet receiving budgetary releases from the Federal Government.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) also expressed confidence that the Federal Government would release the required funds in good time to support the electoral process.

The concerns followed reports that INEC has yet to receive funding for the 2027 elections, for which the commission proposed a budget of N873.78 billion, making it one of the most expensive electoral exercises in the country’s history.

Opposition parties argued that early funding is essential to enable the commission procure election materials, deploy technology and complete other logistical arrangements well ahead of the polls.

Election experts have also stressed the importance of timely releases, noting that the procurement of sensitive election materials, technology infrastructure and other critical equipment often requires months of planning, international sourcing, testing and deployment across Nigeria’s more than 176,000 polling units.

They warned that delays in funding could compress implementation timelines, increase logistical challenges and expose the electoral process to avoidable operational difficulties.

INEC, however, maintained that the funding process follows a phased release pattern and assured Nigerians that preparations, including technology upgrades and procurement of election materials, were progressing according to schedule.

The APC echoed the commission’s position, expressing confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would ensure that the necessary funds are released in time to guarantee credible elections.

Nigeria is scheduled to hold presidential and National Assembly elections on January 16, 2027, while governorship and State House of Assembly elections are slated for February 6, 2027.

Political analysts say the coming months will be crucial in determining whether INEC can sustain its election timetable and deliver a credible, transparent and well-organised electoral process.