SNOW TV NEWS DESK
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the movement of non-sensitive election materials to some geopolitical zones as preparations intensify for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The development was announced on Thursday, November 12, by INEC National Commissioner, Professor Rhoda Gumus, while receiving a delegation from Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), led by the Kenyan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Isaac Keen Parashina.
Gumus, who represented INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan, disclosed that the commission had completed nine of the 14 activities outlined in its electoral timetable, indicating that preparations for the elections were progressing.
She explained that Amupitan had recently concluded a tour of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to assess the commission’s level of preparedness, identify operational challenges, and determine areas requiring urgent attention.
According to her, the commission was satisfied with the progress made so far and had begun taking practical steps towards ensuring a smooth electoral process.
“We can see from our tour that we are really going towards the election proper,” she said.
On voter registration and accreditation, Gumus revealed that the production of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) had been completed, with most states already receiving the first and second batches for distribution. She urged eligible voters who had not collected their cards to do so ahead of the elections.
She also disclosed that staff training was ongoing at the commission’s headquarters and state offices, while preparations were underway for the procurement and deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which plays a key role in voter accreditation.
However, the issue of diaspora voting remains unresolved. Gumus explained that Nigeria’s existing electoral laws do not currently permit citizens living abroad to vote, stressing that legislative amendments would be necessary before INEC could introduce the arrangement.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for electoral cooperation between Nigeria and Kenya, which is preparing for its own general elections in August 2027.
Parashina said the Kenyan delegation was in Nigeria to learn from INEC’s experience, particularly in areas involving election administration and the participation of special interest groups.
He disclosed that Kenyans living in about 12 countries participated in the last general election, while the country was working towards expanding diaspora voting to approximately 26 countries.
The early movement of election materials, alongside preparations involving PVC distribution, staff training, and technology, signals INEC’s efforts to avoid last-minute logistical difficulties.
Nevertheless, Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the commission can translate these preparations into a credible, transparent, and peaceful election.
With public confidence in the electoral process remaining a major concern, INEC’s biggest challenge will not simply be organizing the 2027 polls but ensuring that voters have confidence in the outcome.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
