Former political adviser to Nigeria's Vice President, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of compromised electoral processes in Nigeria's upcoming 2027 general elections.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Monday, Dr. Baba-Ahmed emphasized that failure to conduct transparent elections could thrust the nation into unprecedented crisis.
"Voices are being raised regarding integrity of the 2027 elections. Our leaders and INEC should listen. Anything short of the most transparent elections will produce neither winners nor losers. Rigging will risk plunging this country into its worst crises. No one wants that," he wrote.
His comments come at a critical time when discussions about electoral integrity are intensifying across the country. Political stakeholders and citizens alike have expressed growing concerns about the credibility of the forthcoming elections, highlighting the need for robust measures to ensure free and fair polls.
The warning also coincides with proposed electoral reforms by the House of Representatives, which has suggested conducting all five elections—presidential, senatorial, House of Representatives, governorship, and House of Assembly polls—on a single day in 2027.
If approved, this proposal would amend the Electoral Act to empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to simultaneously conduct all elections in one day, marking a significant shift from the current staggered approach.
Political analysts note that Dr. Baba-Ahmed's warning reflects broader concerns about Nigeria's democratic stability and the crucial role that credible elections play in maintaining national peace and cohesion.
As preparations for the 2027 elections begin to take shape, stakeholders are calling on INEC to address these concerns proactively by strengthening its systems, enhancing transparency, and ensuring that the electoral process remains beyond reproach.
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