The nationâs political elite has already begun the process of rigging the 2027 general elections, according to Professor Adele Jinadu, a popular political scientist.
Speaking at the Policy Dialogue on âState of Anti-Corruption Policy and Practice in Nigeriaâ in Abuja, he alleged that political manipulation is evident in the appointment of known party members as commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
âThey have started the process of rigging the next general election through the appointment of known party members,â Jinadu said. âNext year, many commissioners will be due for re-appointment. They will use the power of appointment to put those who will do their bidding.â
Jinadu also highlighted how vote-buying is entrenched in Nigeriaâs political system, calling for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to focus on the monetary transactions at party primaries instead of targeting voters receiving small amounts.
âVote buying is done through procurement, they are amassing war chests for 2027. EFCC should go to party primaries where they give huge amounts of not only naira but even dollars to buy party tickets, instead of going after poor voters who get just N2,000 or N4,000.â
The professor emphasized the urgent need for Nigerians to actively oppose the manipulation of electoral processes and systemic corruption. âWe must not fold our arms doing nothing. I am not tired of fighting. We must not give up. We must speak truth to power.â
Peoplesmind
