Yiaga Africa has called for a thorough post-election audit of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and improved security coordination as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. The recommendation follows the organisation’s observation of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, where concerns were raised about the reliability and integrity of the BVAS machines. Yiaga Africa emphasized that ensuring electoral transparency and public trust requires rigorous technical evaluation and stronger collaboration between security agencies.
During its monitoring of the Osun poll, Yiaga Africa noted irregularities in the operation of BVAS devices at several polling units. Some machines failed to authenticate voters correctly, while others experienced delays or shutdowns during accreditation. These issues raised questions about the preparedness of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for national elections. The group also observed lapses in the deployment of security personnel, with some polling stations lacking adequate protection despite prior warnings.
In a statement released after the election, Yiaga Africa stressed that the BVAS must undergo an independent technical audit to identify vulnerabilities and recommend necessary upgrades. The audit should include testing under real-world conditions, verification of software integrity, and assessment of hardware durability. The organisation urged INEC to involve cybersecurity experts and civil society groups in this process to ensure transparency and accountability.
Furthermore, Yiaga Africa recommended enhanced coordination among the Nigerian Police Force, military, and other security agencies to prevent electoral violence and ensure smooth conduct of polls. The group highlighted that poor inter-agency communication during the Osun election contributed to delays and confusion at some locations. It called for joint planning sessions and clear operational protocols ahead of the 2027 elections.
The 2026 Osun governorship election was held on July 14, 2026, and saw incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke re-elected. While the election was generally peaceful, Yiaga Africa’s findings point to systemic challenges that need urgent attention. The organisation’s recommendations are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic processes and restoring voter confidence in electronic voting systems.
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, stakeholders are increasingly focused on improving electoral infrastructure and security. Yiaga Africa’s call for a BVAS audit and better security coordination reflects growing demand for credible, transparent, and inclusive elections across the country. These measures could play a critical role in shaping a more resilient democratic future for Nigeria.
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