2027: PDP Chieftain raises concerns over INEC credibility to conduct dependable, credible, fair, peaceful election

By Okpashi Odama

A Chieftain of the People’s Democratic party (PDP), Engr Anselm Ijebor has. expressed concerns over the independent and the readiness of the Independent National Electorial Commission ( INEC), and the security agencies to Conduct a credible, fair and dependable elections in 2027.

This is even as he has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure a fair and peaceful election in the Aug.15 governorship election in Osun

The Chieftain of the opposition People’s Democratic party who expressed his view on the readiness of the nation’s electorial umpire during an interview with Journalists in Abuja, said with deep apprehension and concerns over the inconsistency shown so far by INEC, the election in Osun presented another opportunity for INEC to prove its independence and ability to conduct credible elections in 2027.

According to the outspoken politician, With the startling thuggery and electoral malfeasance that marred the recent by-elections in some states, Nigerians fear is that the 2027 elections may turn out to be the most awful in the nation’s history, given the proclivity of some politicians to win at all costs and subvert the will of the people.

“INEC have a lot of ground to cover. It’s has become increasingly clear that the electoral umpire is to some extent impotent, so Nigerians must strive to ensure that 2027 election is protected”.

While calling for the strengthening of the Electoral Act, Ijebor, commended the resilience of Nigerian voters,even as they remain concerned about recurring violence, vote-buying, and systemic weaknesses which has remain the most challenging issue in the nation’s electorial processes.

” For Nigeria to be taken seriously as the true giant of Africa, INEC and the security agencies must prove that our democracy can guarantee peace, fairness, and credible elections. Democracy loses its meaning when citizens fear for their lives at polling units. Manipulations take the centre stage, corruption is institutionalized.

The menace of electoral violence is a scar on Nigeria’s democratic journey. Remedies and punishments must be practical, enforceable, and just”, Ijebor warned.

The world expects Nigeria to lead Africa with credibility and democratic values, and not only with its population and economy. Until we cure electoral violence, our democracy will remain fragile, and our global reputation will be compromised.

“The Electoral Act should be fortified to close loopholes that allow manipulation and violence, technology should be fully deployed and protected from sabotage.

The PDP Chieftain, suggested that security agencies must be apolitical, proactive, and accountable, adding that election duty must not be a platform for compromise but for professionalism.

He stressed that citizens must be continuously educated that elections are contests of ideas, not wars, stating that violence erodes legitimacy and breeds instability.

Ijebor who also tasked traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society to rise against the culture of thuggery and political violence, said violent election “is a poisoned foundation for governance.”

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