2027 Polls: Nigerians Will Reject ‘Technical Glitches’ Bode George Cautions INEC Boss

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Prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader, Chief Bode George, has issued a strong warning to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, stating that Nigerians will no longer tolerate excuses of technical failures during elections.

George made the remarks on Monday while speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, as political stakeholders begin to focus attention on preparations for the 2027 general elections.

According to the PDP chieftain, public confidence in the electoral process hinges on transparency and efficiency, stressing that the errors witnessed during the 2023 general elections must not be repeated.

Recalling past controversies, George said the nation had previously invested heavily in election technology, only for officials to later attribute failures to system malfunctions.

“We have heard this story before,” he said. “The necessary equipment was procured, yet Nigerians were told there was a glitch. That excuse will no longer be acceptable.”

He urged Professor Amupitan to take firm steps to prevent any form of system failure, whether accidental or deliberate, warning that intentional lapses would further erode trust in the electoral body.

“There should be no room for excuses,” George added. “Mr Amupitan, this system must work—no glitches.”

Meanwhile, concerns over INEC’s credibility have intensified following recent demands by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for accountability over alleged missing or diverted election funds.

Barely a month ago, SERAP called on the INEC chairman to explain the alleged disappearance of ₦55.9 billion reportedly earmarked for the procurement of smart card readers, ballot papers, result sheets, and other election materials for the 2019 general elections.

According to SERAP, the allegations are contained in the latest annual report released by the Auditor-General of the Federation on September 9, 2025.

The organization also demanded the disclosure of contractors who allegedly received the funds, including details of their directors, shareholders, and business addresses.

SERAP further urged INEC to refer the matter to appropriate anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution, while ensuring the recovery of any misappropriated funds.

In a letter dated December 6, 2025, signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the group emphasized that INEC must operate with integrity to safeguard Nigerians’ constitutional right to participate in democratic governance.

The organization warned that allegations of corruption in election logistics directly undermine the credibility of elections and threaten the public’s trust in the democratic process.