Major opposition parties have warned that delayed funding for INEC could derail preparations and undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
The African Democratic Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, and Nigeria Democratic Congress said late disbursement could disrupt procurement timelines, erode public confidence, and threaten the smooth conduct of the polls.
INEC dismissed these concerns, insisting it remains financially on track and preparations are proceeding as scheduled. The ruling APC backed the commission, expressing confidence that President Tinubu will ensure timely release of funds.
The controversy follows INEC’s disclosure that it has yet to receive budgetary releases for the elections. The commission has proposed N873.78bn for the 2027 polls one of Nigeria’s largest electoral budgets.
Election experts warn that timely funding is critical, as sensitive materials and technology require months of international procurement and testing across over 176,000 polling units. Late funding could expose the process to political interference and logistical failures reminiscent of the 2023 election challenges.
INEC maintains that funding follows a phased release pattern and that preparations including technology upgrades and material procurement are on schedule.
With the 2027 elections set for January 16 (presidential/NASS) and February 6 (governorship/state assemblies), analysts say the coming months will determine if INEC can sustain its timeline and deliver a credible poll.
