Amnesti International Nigeria has called for trial for sponsors of electoral violence and vote-buying, warning that political influence must not shield those responsible from prosecution.

The organisation said it would identify, document and expose perpetrators and sponsors of electoral offences, regardless of their political influence, and present credible evidence to national and international authorities for accountability and possible targeted sanctions.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Amnesty International Nigeria said electoral violence and vote-buying violated human rights and undermined democracy.

Amnesty International’s call comes as concerns over electoral violence and vote-buying remain central to preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections.

An August 2026 assessment by the International Republican Institute identified election-related violence, vote-buying and monetised political competition among the challenges facing Nigeria’s electoral process. It also called for stronger investigations and prosecution of electoral offences, alongside measures to protect voters and candidates.

In its assessment of the 2023 General Elections, Amnesty International documented violence and human rights violations involving state and non-state actors, including attacks on candidates, political opponents, electoral infrastructure and personnel.

Rafsanjani said the proposed sanctions could include a visa ban and asset freezing, while urging Nigerians, journalists, civil society organisations and election observers to report violations safely and preserve evidence.

He stressed that electoral violence and vote-buying violate human rights and undermine democracy.

He also demanded independent investigations, protection for victims and witnesses, and prosecution of those responsible for electoral offences.