Former INEC national commissioner Festus Okoye warns that vote buying and insecurity could significantly affect the outcome of Nigeria’s 2027 general election. Speaking during a virtual masterclass organised by the Lagos chapter of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB), he highlights election conduct, enforcement, and the ability to manage risk as key concerns.
On vote buying, Okoye says the practice is evolving from discreet cash distributions to more openly conducted transactions at or near polling units. He notes that voters may receive money from more than one political actor at polling locations, which makes the activity harder to detect and curb.
On insecurity, he argues that security levels and resources used during off-cycle elections may not be replicated across the country for the general election. He links this to challenges for election administration and results collation, particularly in communities already affected by insecurity. He also points to political party primaries, where governors’ control can drive some politicians to seek alternative platforms, and raises concerns about a growing perception that the judiciary ultimately confers mandates after elections. He urges broadcast journalists to strengthen investigative and legal knowledge ahead of 2027.
