Igini warns weak enforcement of electoral laws could threaten 2027 polls

Former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioner Mike Igini has warned that the failure to enforce electoral laws could undermine Nigeria’s democracy and threaten national stability ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Igini expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to democratic freedoms, accusing some political actors of intimidating citizens and restricting their right to participate freely in political activities.

He made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, where he stressed that the conduct of political stakeholders before and during elections would significantly influence the credibility of the electoral process.

The former INEC commissioner identified the enforcement of existing electoral laws as his major concern ahead of the 2027 elections, arguing that Nigeria risked replacing the rule of law with the arbitrary actions of individuals.

“The law is there, but today, we are now in a state of anomy. The laws are no longer enforced. That is my greatest worry about this election, because if we cannot fix the politics, we can never fix our economy, because our development are embedded in politics and political processes,” Igini said.

He urged Nigerians and relevant authorities to pay closer attention to provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, particularly those designed to protect political participation and prevent intimidation during election campaigns.

Igini cited Section 95 of the Act, which he said placed responsibility on state commissioners of police to ensure that candidates, political parties and aspirants were not prevented from campaigning or organising political processions.

He also referenced Section 97, which he said prohibited threats of violence against citizens because of their electoral choices and barred anyone from compelling a candidate to support a political party or another candidate.

“Look at Section 97, that a candidate shall not be compelled in any form by anybody to support a political party or candidate,” he said.

READ ALSO; Akpabio, Lawan risk jail term under new electoral law

According to Igini, the continued disregard for these provisions could weaken public confidence in elections and erode the democratic institutions needed to sustain political stability.

He argued that credible elections depended not only on the conduct of electoral officials but also on the willingness of political parties, security agencies and other stakeholders to respect the law.

Igini laments decline in democratic values

The former electoral commissioner described elections as opportunities for national renewal, allowing citizens to participate in political activities, debate public policies and freely choose their leaders.

He, however, lamented what he characterised as a decline in the democratic values that should underpin electoral contests, including political engagement, policy debates, moral arguments and the development of shared national values.

Igini also questioned the commitment of individuals allegedly threatening Nigerians over their political choices, asking where they were during the country’s struggle for democratic governance.

“They are putting out light on democracy. I want to say clearly that those who want to put out the light on democracy we fought for because of the character who is talking, threatening people all over the country,” he said.

He further warned that attempts to undermine democratic freedoms could have serious consequences for the country’s future.

“Where were they when we were fighting for democracy in this country? Where were they? They want to end Nigeria, this country will see their end,” Igini added.

His comments come as attention turns to preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the enforcement of electoral laws, the protection of political participation and the conduct of political actors remaining important issues in discussions about electoral credibility.

The specific incidents of alleged intimidation referenced by Igini were not detailed in the remarks provided.