The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced testing of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) as part of preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, disclosed this on Friday in Akure during the 2026 edition of The Convocation, a political programme focused on “Electioneering and the Future of Nigeria’s Democracy.”
Agboke, who was represented by the Head of Voter Education, Publicity, Gender and Inclusivity, Olayinka Ogunseye, said the commission was taking steps to ensure the 2027 elections meet the expectations of Nigerians.
He revealed that INEC plans to carry out a mock election in November to assess the performance of its electoral technology and further prepare personnel and processes ahead of the polls.
According to him, the commission remains committed to conducting elections that are free, fair, inclusive and acceptable to Nigerians.
Agboke also said INEC would intensify voter education and public sensitisation to encourage citizens to participate actively in the electoral process and understand their responsibilities as voters.
Speaking at the event, Young Progressives Party (YPP) Chairman in Ondo State, Dotun Ojon, urged Nigerians to take a more active role in elections, noting that electoral participation influences the leadership and direction of the country.
Ojon said the YPP had begun preparations for the 2027 elections, with its attention extending beyond the presidential contest to securing representation in the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly.
A former Ondo State Commissioner for Sports, Dayo Awude, identified the high cost of running political campaigns and weaknesses in internal party democracy as issues that should be addressed ahead of future elections.
Awude also urged Nigerians and political stakeholders to remain engaged with the democratic process despite existing challenges.
The convener of the programme, Henry Olonimoyo, called for sustained dialogue and civic participation, particularly among young Nigerians.
He expressed concern that increasing frustration with the political system could discourage citizens from participating in democratic activities, stressing the importance of creating platforms where voters can engage elected officials and other public leaders on issues affecting society.
