INEC to Release New Guidelines on Election Result Reviews Ahead of 2027 Polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to introduce new regulations to guide the review of election declarations and results, as part of its preparations for the 2027 general elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made this known on Tuesday during a consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja. He said the commission is drafting supplementary regulations and guidelines aimed at providing clarity on the application of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022, which relates to the review of declarations and returns made during elections.

Prof. Yakubu emphasized that the commission has the legal authority to issue such guidelines to ensure the proper implementation of the Electoral Act and to avoid misinterpretations of the law during future polls.

“As we approach the bye-elections, the off-cycle governorship elections, and eventually the 2027 general election, the commission is concerned about the various interpretations of Section 65,” Yakubu said, adding that the supplementary regulations would be published soon, possibly within the week, on INEC’s website and other platforms.

In addition to legal clarity, Yakubu urged RECs to focus on improving voter access by decongesting overcrowded polling units and enhancing electoral logistics and security. He also stressed the importance of updating the voters’ register and maintaining consistent engagement with stakeholders at the state and local levels.

The INEC chairman reminded the RECs that their duties are full-time and ongoing, and called on them to build the capacity of their staff to keep up with new policies and innovations introduced by the commission.

“You do not need an elaborate conference or workshop to improve your staff’s understanding of recent changes,” he said, encouraging commissioners to take initiative in implementing electoral reforms ahead of the next national vote.