INEC Raises Concern Over Declining Voter Turnout Ahead Of 2027 Polls
By NJORIGE LYNUS
THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed alarm over Nigeria’s declining voter turnout, which dropped to 26.7% in the 2023 presidential election, the lowest since 2011.
INEC Chairman’s Chief Technical Adviser, Prof. Bolade Eyinla, revealed this at a YIAGA Africa retreat in Abuja, warning that fewer than half of registered voters now participate in elections — a trend that threatens democratic legitimacy.
He attributed the decline to voter apathy, loss of trust in the electoral process, and inconveniences during voting, noting that technology such as BVAS has also curbed multiple voting, exposing inflated voter registers.
Eyinla stressed that “an election in which less than 50% of voters participate carries a shadow of legitimacy,” urging INEC and stakeholders to enhance voter education, trust-building, and accessibility ahead of 2027.
He disclosed that INEC has reviewed 142 recommendations from the 2023 elections and submitted proposals to the National Assembly for legal amendments — including provisions for early voting, electronic result transmission, and reforms to the Electoral Act 2022.
Eyinla emphasized the need for swift legislative action before February 2026 to ensure a clear and credible legal framework for the 2027 general elections.
