2027 ELECTIONS: MIKE IGINI WARNS INEC PRESIDING OFFICERS AGAINST FALSE NETWORK CLAIMS

Former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, has issued a stern warning to electoral officials ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning presiding officers against falsely claiming network failure to avoid electronically transmitting polling unit results.

Igini, known for his advocacy for electoral transparency and credible elections, warned that any INEC presiding officer who claims there is no network to transmit results electronically could face serious consequences if party agents or other Nigerians at the polling unit can demonstrate that network service is available on their mobile phones.

In his words, “If INEC presiding officer at the polling units complains of no network to transmit results electronically & party agents or Nigerians around check their phone & see network, that INEC official will be in a danger.”

The warning comes amid growing public attention on the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process and the role of technology in ensuring transparent and verifiable election results.

Electronic transmission of results remains a major issue in discussions surrounding the 2027 elections, with stakeholders and voters keen to ensure that the outcome of elections reflects the actual votes cast at polling units.

Igini’s remarks underscore the need for INEC officials to demonstrate professionalism, integrity and accountability in the discharge of their responsibilities. Any attempt to undermine the transparency of result transmission could heighten public suspicion and erode confidence in the electoral process.

As political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 polls, the warning serves as a reminder that the conduct of presiding officers at polling units will be critical to public confidence in the elections.

Ultimately, Nigerians will expect electoral officials to uphold the law, ensure accurate documentation of votes and follow the prescribed procedures for transmitting results, without deliberate interference or manipulation.