The debate over the credibility and expectations surrounding Nigeria’s 2027 general elections intensified on Monday as Gidado Muhammad Bashir, PhD, Cultural Officer at the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), weighed in on recent remarks by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan.
Speaking on Adamimogo 105.1FM’s current affairs programme Inside Scoop, Dr Bashir addressed the controversy sparked by Amupitan’s statement urging Nigerians not to expect a “100 per cent perfect election” in 2027, a comment that has drawn mixed reactions from political stakeholders and citizens alike.
According to Bashir, while Nigerians naturally desire flawless elections, the reality of democratic processes across the world suggests otherwise. He noted that INEC, as an institution, has a duty to reassure citizens of improvement and transparency, but voters must also recognise the human and logistical complexities involved in managing nationwide elections.
He explained that elections are driven by human systems and infrastructure that remain imperfect, stressing that progress not perfection should be the benchmark for assessing the 2027 polls. “INEC is expected to deliver an improved version of previous elections,” he said, adding that Nigerians should judge success by measurable advancement rather than unrealistic expectations.
On the issue of real-time electronic transmission of results, Bashir described the goal as achievable but questioned whether Nigeria currently possesses the required infrastructure nationwide. He pointed out that many rural communities still struggle with poor network connectivity, while insecurity in some regions further complicates technological deployment.
“In some parts of Nigeria, people still move to specific locations before accessing network services,” he explained. “You must ask whether the gadgets and systems needed for seamless transmission can function reliably everywhere at the same time.”
He also emphasised the importance of balancing ambition with practical realities, suggesting that electronic transmission could be implemented fully in areas with adequate infrastructure while alternative methods remain necessary in underserved locations.
Addressing criticisms that INEC’s warning may be an excuse for potential failure, Bashir urged Nigerians not to rush to conclusions. He noted that Professor Amupitan recently assumed office and faces enormous institutional pressure, adding that public scrutiny remains healthy for democracy but should be guided by fairness.
“It is good to keep INEC on its toes,” he said. “Nigerians expect much, and the commission must deliver. But citizens should also allow room for preparation and acknowledge that unexpected challenges may arise.”
Bashir dismissed claims that the electoral body had already compromised neutrality, arguing that much of the criticism originates from opposition parties, a normal feature of democratic competition. Rather than focusing solely on INEC’s statements, he advised political parties to strengthen internal structures and prepare adequately for the elections.
Turning to INEC’s newly released electoral timetable, Bashir described the timelines as realistic, including the 91-day window given to political parties to conduct primaries and resolve disputes ahead of the polls. Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Assembly elections will follow on February 6.
He noted that adjustments to the timetable, particularly concerns about overlaps with the Ramadan fasting period, demonstrated inclusiveness on the part of the electoral body. According to him, accommodating religious sensitivities reflects democratic responsiveness rather than political bias.
On the requirement that parties submit digital membership registers at least 21 days before primaries or risk deregistration, Bashir insisted that compliance is achievable. He argued that registered parties already possess nationwide structures and only need to update and harmonise their databases.
“A law made for everyone cannot be changed because a few parties are unprepared,” he said, adding that political organisations serious about winning power must demonstrate organisational discipline.
He further attributed challenges faced by smaller parties less to structural exclusion and more to internal leadership struggles and lack of coordination, noting that similar hurdles were overcome during political mergers that reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape in 2014.
While acknowledging grievances raised by opposition parties over the timetable, Bashir urged political actors to prioritise national interest above partisan concerns. He warned against allowing electoral debates to deepen divisions at a time when Nigeria faces pressing issues such as security, economic stability and infrastructure development.
Ultimately, he maintained that democratic progress depends on collective responsibility, from electoral institutions, political parties and voters alike.
“As Nigerians move toward another election cycle,” Bashir concluded, “the focus should be on strengthening institutions, improving participation and preparing for a better process, not an imaginary perfect one.”
