The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned politicians, party agents and electoral officials against tampering with votes during the 2027 general elections, stressing that anyone found guilty of compromising the integrity of ballots could face imprisonment and fines.
The warning was issued by the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Plateau State, Professor Samuel Egwu, during a stakeholders’ meeting with political party leaders and candidates in Jos on Tuesday.
Egwu described the engagement as an important step towards ensuring credible elections, noting that political parties and their candidates have significant responsibilities in protecting the electoral process.
He explained that the meeting was organised to educate participants on electoral regulations and remind them of their obligations under the law ahead of the forthcoming polls.
According to the REC, electoral officials would not be exempted from prosecution if they violated the law by interfering with votes or compromising election results.
He emphasised that anyone who undermined the integrity of the ballot, regardless of their position or political affiliation, could face legal consequences.
Egwu also expressed concern over the excessive use of money during elections, warning that although campaign financing was necessary, excessive spending could threaten the credibility of the process.
He urged political actors to conduct their activities responsibly and comply with electoral guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Faniyan Ayodeji, represented at the meeting by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Nengi Jephtha, stressed the importance of adequate information and compliance with electoral regulations in preventing violence.
He maintained that political leaders and candidates had a duty to follow established rules to ensure peaceful campaigns and elections.
The police commissioner also appealed to political parties to take stakeholders’ meetings seriously, expressing concern over the low turnout of party representatives at the engagement.
He reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to supporting peaceful and credible elections, adding that cooperation from political actors would make security operations more effective.
INEC’s warning comes as preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections, with the commission urging all stakeholders to prioritise transparency, accountability and respect for the law.
Category: Politics
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