The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that true institutional independence remains unattainable without complete financial autonomy, cautioning that reliance on standard government budgetary approvals risks compromising operational effectiveness and undermining public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a public book presentation in Abuja, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan highlighted the limitations of the current funding structure. Although the Nigerian Constitution places the commission's finances on the Consolidated Revenue Fund, practical execution still subjects the agency to the routine legislative appropriation process. Amupitan argued that this continued fiscal dependence on outside institutions creates operational vulnerabilities for a body tasked with managing federal and state elections, registering political parties, maintaining the national voters' register, and overseeing party compliance.

Beyond funding mechanisms, the INEC chief emphasized that delivering credible elections requires a collaborative ecosystem rather than sole reliance on the electoral commission. Security agencies, media outlets, civil society organizations, and the voting public all play critical roles in sustaining democratic integrity.

Addressing ongoing debates regarding leadership selection, Amupitan noted that constitutional provisions already mandate presidential appointments in consultation with the Council of State and approval by the Senate. He observed that challenges within the electoral system often stem from administrative execution and compliance rather than deficiencies in the legal framework itself, stressing the importance of upholding both the spirit of the Constitution and the Electoral Act to ensure democratic progress.