INEC Conducts Mock Election Drill Ahead of 2026 Area Council Polls
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted a mock accreditation and voting exercise across Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Saturday, a key step in preparations for the February 21, 2026 Area Council elections. The simulation aimed to evaluate operational readiness, test upgraded technology, and enhance the capacity of election officials before the polls.
During a Train-the-Trainers session for Supervisory Presiding Officers, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) stressed the importance of mastering the official training manual to ensure uniformity. He reminded trainees of their statutory duties and underscored the critical need for a credible electoral process, cautioning against any compromise.
A central focus of the field assessment was the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). Prof. Amupitan described the device as a “game changer” after it successfully prevented double accreditation and multiple voting during the mock poll. “We do not want to use the main election as a guinea pig,” he stated, adding that attempts to re-accredit a voter were immediately detected and blocked. He expressed satisfaction with the system’s performance under simulated conditions.
The exercise also replicated full election protocols, with party agents present and result sheets signed, reinforcing transparency. While civil society observers were anticipated, the drill provided valuable feedback and served as a voter sensitisation tool to mobilise turnout for the 2026 elections.
Prof. Amupitan provided an update on INEC’s broader preparedness. All batches of non-sensitive materials have been deployed, and training for presiding officers is set to begin next week. Systems tested so far are functioning satisfactorily, he confirmed.
The chairman acknowledged persistent concerns about voter apathy, particularly in rural and satellite communities where network connectivity can be a challenge. He assured that contingency measures are in place to address such infrastructural issues. Regarding the electronic transmission of results—a subject of ongoing legislative deliberation—he urged patience as the National Assembly harmonises the bill. “The law-making process is ongoing. Let us not create unnecessary tension,” he said.
The successful mock exercise signals INEC’s commitment to a credible and stable process. With technology tested and training progressing, the commission is advancing toward the 2026 Area Council elections with an emphasis on transparency, efficiency, and rebuilding public trust.
