Mrs Temilola Akinade, Chairman, Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Lagos State, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to upgrade its voting equipment and ensure that all electoral machines are in perfect working condition ahead of the elections

Akinade made the appeal in an interview with newsmen in Lagos on Monday.

She said that INEC should ensure that all voting equipment and technological facilities were fully functional to prevent technical challenges that could undermine the credibility of the forthcoming elections.

“We do not want any disappointment from INEC, particularly in the area of the voting system, during the 2027 general elections.

“All electoral equipment must be properly tested, upgraded where necessary and maintained to guarantee a smooth and seamless voting process,” she said.

Akinade commended INEC for its efforts so far, but urged the commission to intensify its preparations to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.

She said that INEC must demonstrate transparency, accountability and professionalism in discharging its constitutional responsibilities.

She added that public trust remained essential to credible elections.

The IPAC chairman also called on the Federal and state governments to provide a level playing field for all political parties to campaign freely and promote their candidates without intimidation or unnecessary restrictions.

She urged political parties to educate their supporters on the need for peaceful campaigns, mutual respect and tolerance of opposing political views.

Akinade cautioned party supporters against attacking political opponents or vandalising campaign materials.

She said that political campaigns should be conducted with decorum, civility and mutual respect.

She added that candidates and their supporters must prioritise issue-based engagements rather than resort to violence or personal attacks.

According to her, all stakeholders must work collectively to ensure that the 2027 general elections are peaceful, transparent, credible and acceptable to Nigerians.

She called on INEC, security agencies, political parties and other relevant stakeholders to remain committed to democratic principles and the peaceful conduct of the elections.