INEC KWARA ENGAGES STAKEHOLDERS AHEAD OF 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Kwara State has commenced broader stakeholder engagement ahead of the 2027 General Elections, with a renewed focus on security, voter education, peaceful participation and improving access to polling units.

The engagement, held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the INEC Collation Centre, Kwara State Office, was convened by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Ahmed Yushau Garki, to brief stakeholders on the Commission’s preparations and timelines for the 2027 elections, while also obtaining feedback on challenges observed during previous elections.

The meeting brought attention to the need for stronger collaboration among electoral stakeholders in promoting voter education, peaceful conduct and greater citizen participation in the electoral process.

Speaking on the security situation, the REC disclosed that the Commission had conducted a survey of security red zones across the state to identify areas that could pose challenges to the conduct of elections. He noted that Ifelodun Local Government Area recorded the highest level of concern, with 89 communities identified in the assessment. Public reporting has separately cited the same figure in relation to insecurity and displacement in Ifelodun.

The REC also disclosed that requests had been received from six Local Government Areas concerning the renaming or relocation of polling units, underscoring ongoing efforts to address accessibility and other challenges that may affect voters.
According to Dr. Garki, stakeholder engagements are also being held to gather input and strengthen collaboration around the electoral process, particularly in areas requiring greater attention before the 2027 elections.

He used the occasion to caution against political rancour, vote buying, violence and other forms of conduct capable of undermining peaceful elections, urging political actors and other stakeholders to contribute to a stable electoral environment.

The Commission, he said, remains committed to creating an electoral environment where every eligible citizen can exercise their franchise freely, peacefully and without fear or intimidation.

Dr. Garki further reassured stakeholders of INEC’s commitment to transparency, fairness and adherence to the law and established guidelines in the conduct of the 2027 General Elections.

The meeting forms part of wider preparations and consultations by INEC as the Commission and other electoral stakeholders intensify efforts towards an orderly, inclusive and peaceful electoral process in 2027. INEC has also continued stakeholder engagements nationally as preparations for the elections gather pace.