Arewa Think Tank backs INEC funding appeal, urges FG to release outstanding funds for 2027 elections

The Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, has expressed strong support for the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) appeal to the Federal Government for the prompt release of its outstanding budgetary allocations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Yakubu, in a statement on Wednesday, said INEC’s request should be viewed as a necessary step towards ensuring that the commission is adequately prepared to conduct credible, transparent and efficient elections across the country.

He commended INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan for drawing attention to the financial requirements of the electoral process early enough, noting that adequate funding was essential to effective planning and the successful implementation of the commission’s electoral timetable.

According to him, the 2027 general elections will be a major national undertaking requiring careful planning, modern technology, effective logistics, adequate election materials and robust security arrangements.

“INEC should not be allowed to struggle for funds while preparing for an election as important and complex as the 2027 general elections. Timely funding is not a favour to INEC; it is an investment in the credibility and stability of our democracy,” Yakubu said.

The Arewa Think Tank Convener noted that INEC had already demonstrated its commitment to preparations by completing nine of the 14 critical statutory milestones contained in its revised timetable.

He said the progress should be sustained by ensuring that the commission has access to the resources required to execute the remaining stages of the electoral process without unnecessary delays or disruptions.

Yakubu particularly welcomed INEC’s emphasis on election technology, logistics, sensitive materials and security, describing them as fundamental requirements for the successful conduct of elections across Nigeria’s 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and 774 local government areas.

“Elections are too important to be left to last-minute arrangements. The earlier INEC receives the funds appropriated to it, the better positioned the commission will be to plan, procure, test and deploy the necessary infrastructure for the elections,” he said.

He therefore appealed to the Federal Government to treat INEC’s funding request with urgency and release the outstanding allocations in accordance with approved budgetary provisions.

Yakubu stressed that providing INEC with the necessary resources would also strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and enable the commission to remain focused on its statutory responsibilities.

“Every Nigerian who believes in democracy should support measures that strengthen the electoral process. INEC must be given the financial and institutional support required to do its job effectively, while the commission itself must continue to uphold transparency, accountability and strict adherence to the law,” he added.

The Arewa Think Tank Convener further called on political parties, civil society organisations, the media and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at ensuring that the 2027 elections are peaceful, credible and acceptable to Nigerians.

He said the responsibility for a successful election should not rest on INEC alone, but requires cooperation among all stakeholders and a shared commitment to protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Yakubu urged the Federal Government to respond positively to INEC’s appeal, stressing that early and adequate funding would help prevent avoidable operational challenges and ensure that preparations for the 2027 elections remain on schedule.

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