By Okoh Richard Ifeanyichukwu

Since 1999, when Nigeria returned to democratic rule, elections and the electoral process have been marred by numerous irregularities. As we approach the 2027 general elections, it has become a herculean task to prevent the issues that troubled past elections from recurring.

Across the country, political parties and politicians are preparing for an event that will either unify or divide the nation in 2027.

It is clear that the incumbent government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must be willing and prepared to steer our country toward a better future, especially since it remains deeply divided ethnically, religiously, politically, economically, and otherwise.

In light of urgent challenges such as inflation now exceeding 500%, insecurity, kidnapping, banditry, corruption, and other destructive vices, this government must earn the remaining trust and respect of some Nigerians by ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections in 2027.

A major criticism of the 2023 general election was that INEC, led by Professor Jega, failed to fulfill its promise and responsibility to facilitate free and fair elections. Most notably, it failed to upload election results live and electronically on its portal.

 

This failure was compounded by accusations of bribery and rigging aimed at favoring certain political parties and candidates. The rejection of the 2023 election results sparked riots, disturbances, and ethnic divisions across the country.

For free, fair, and credible elections in 2027, the following steps should be taken:

First, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be truly independent in both its conduct and operations. Allegations often suggest that the chairman is appointed by the current government and tends to act in its interests, making the agency appear partisan.

Second, the government should prepare to provide adequate security for electoral workers and their materials. Incidents of ballot theft, random killings, and kidnapping of INEC officials, temporary workers, and support staff such as corps members must be prevented.

Furthermore, the government, in partnership with INEC, should implement voter education, awareness campaigns, and programs designed to better prepare the electorate for the 2027 elections. This is crucial because many Nigerians have lost hope—not only in INEC but in the entire system.

In addition, the government and INEC must ensure access, protection, and support for journalists (both local and international) and other observers monitoring the elections.

Finally, citizens must also do their part once bitten, twice shy. Electoral violence and voteselling must be outrightly rejected. Acts such as vote-buying, including accepting food, money, or other incentives to support a particular candidate or party, should be strongly discouraged.

In conclusion, to prevent the impending and looming Armageddon of 2027, everyone must work together from the ruling government, INEC, political parties, to Nigerian citizens to ensure a smooth and successful electoral process. Achieving this depends on how well all steps and procedures are managed and executed.

The 2027 Armageddon must be averted at all costs. INEC, as the electoral authority and umpire, must get it right this time.

 

Okoh Richard Ifeanyichukwu a student of Delta State University Abraka