By SUNTV Global Channel | February 12, 2026
Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a budget exceeding ₦1 trillion to fund preparations for the 2027 general elections and its 2026 operational activities, raising fresh concerns over election financing, transparency, and accountability.
The electoral body is requesting ₦873.78 billion specifically for the conduct of the 2027 polls — a significant jump from the ₦313.4 billion spent on the 2023 general elections.
In addition, INEC is seeking ₦171 billion to cover its 2026 operations, which include bye-elections, off-season governorship polls, personnel costs, and administrative expenses. The commission warned that the ₦140 billion already provided by the Ministry of Finance falls short of its urgent and flexible funding needs.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, presented the proposed figures before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters in Abuja, explaining that the request aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates early preparation of election budgets at least one year before national polls.
According to the commission, the 2027 election budget will cover operational logistics, technology deployment, administrative expenses, capital projects, and other election-related costs.
Concerns Over Spending and Credibility
The scale of the proposed budget has sparked debate among stakeholders, with some questioning whether such a massive allocation will translate into credible and transparent elections.
Analysts have also raised concerns about monitoring mechanisms to ensure accountability in managing the huge funds.
Senate Amends Electoral Act
Meanwhile, controversy continues to trail recent amendments to the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Nigerian Senate this week approved changes to Section 60 of the law, making electronic transmission of results to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IREV) mandatory — but with a major caveat.
Under the revised provision, presiding officers must electronically upload polling unit results after signing the official result sheet, Form EC8A. However, where electronic transmission fails due to network or communication issues, the manual result sheet will automatically become the primary basis for collation and declaration.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the plenary, defended the amendment, saying it provides a practical backup for situations where technology fails.
He explained that lawmakers opposing the change were free to present a counter-motion, emphasizing that the revision was necessary to address real-world challenges encountered during elections.
Mixed Reactions
The amendment has triggered mixed reactions nationwide, with critics warning that allowing manual results to override electronic transmission could create loopholes for manipulation.
Supporters, however, argue that the provision is a realistic safeguard in areas with poor network coverage.
As preparations gradually begin for the 2027 elections, both INEC’s massive funding request and the controversial legal changes are expected to remain at the center of national political debate.
— SUNTV Global Channel
