Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disclose the identities of companies contracted to print sensitive election materials for the 2027 general elections, arguing that transparency is essential to public confidence in the electoral process.
Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), raised concerns about the reported lack of clarity surrounding the production of ballot papers and other sensitive materials, urging the electoral commission to explain the arrangements ahead of the polls.
His demand comes as political parties and their candidates begin scrutinising the preparations for the next general election, including the administration of electoral operations and the handling of sensitive documents.
Atiku seeks transparency over election contracts
According to reports of his position, Atiku wants INEC to identify the companies responsible for producing ballot papers and other sensitive materials, alongside information that would help establish how the contracts were awarded.
The former vice-president has argued that greater disclosure would help reassure political parties and voters that appropriate safeguards are in place.
Ballot paper production is a sensitive component of election administration because the materials must be produced, secured, distributed and accounted for under procedures designed to protect the integrity of the vote.
Questions about the contractors, procurement process and custody arrangements therefore carry implications for confidence in the electoral system.
Concerns extend to electoral operations
Atiku has also raised concerns about reported staff redeployments within key departments of the electoral commission.
Changes involving electoral operations and information technology can attract particular attention before a general election because those departments play important roles in planning, managing and supporting the voting process.
However, staff redeployments or the use of particular contractors do not, by themselves, establish wrongdoing. The relevant questions include whether decisions follow established procedures, whether adequate safeguards are maintained and whether the commission provides sufficient explanations to stakeholders.
INEC faces scrutiny ahead of 2027
The electoral commission has a central responsibility to conduct elections that are credible, transparent and consistent with the law.
Providing appropriate information about procurement and operational safeguards can help address legitimate concerns while protecting sensitive security details where necessary.
Atiku’s request adds to the growing political scrutiny surrounding the 2027 election preparations.
The next step is for INEC to clarify the relevant arrangements and explain what information it can disclose about the production and custody of sensitive materials.