Renowned political scientist, Prof. Adele Jinadu, has raised alarms over early indications of potential electoral malpractice ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Speaking at a Policy Dialogue on “The State of Anti-Corruption Policy and Practice in Nigeria” held in Abuja, he accused the political elite of laying the groundwork for manipulation through strategic appointments and financial schemes.
Partisan Influence in Electoral Commission Appointments
Prof. Jinadu expressed concern about the appointment of known political affiliates as commissioners in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He warned that this trend jeopardizes the credibility of the electoral process, as many current commissioners are nearing the end of their terms. “By appointing individuals with clear partisan loyalties, the process of rigging has already begun,” he stated.
He emphasized that such appointments could influence electoral outcomes, undermining democracy. “They are using these appointments to ensure compliance with their agendas. This is not just a threat to free elections but to the integrity of our democratic institutions,” he noted.
Vote Buying and Financial Misconduct
Prof. Jinadu also criticized the growing practice of vote buying, which he described as an entrenched mechanism of electoral corruption. “While the focus has often been on small-scale vote-buying involving impoverished voters, the real issue lies in the enormous sums spent during party primaries. It is here that vast amounts of both naira and foreign currency are distributed to secure party tickets,” he explained.
He urged anti-corruption agencies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to prioritize monitoring political party primaries over targeting low-level electoral infractions.
The Urgency of Citizen Action
Calling on Nigerians to take a stand, Prof. Jinadu encouraged citizens to adopt a vigilant approach, which he termed the “Night Watchman” strategy. He urged individuals not to succumb to apathy but instead to actively safeguard the nation’s democratic future. “This battle is far from over. We must continue to fight and speak truth to power,” he declared.
Corruption and the Abuse of Power
Highlighting the broader implications of corruption, Prof. Jinadu pointed to the abuse of power by political incumbents as a key driver. “The unchecked use of incumbency powers has reached alarming levels, undermining the democratic principle of fair competition,” he said. This, he argued, perpetuates a vicious cycle of political self-interest that stunts national development.
Prof. Jinadu also criticized political interference in Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, noting that frequent leadership changes have hindered their effectiveness. “The EFCC has seen nine chairpersons since its inception in 2003, a clear sign of how political meddling compromises institutional stability,” he remarked.
A Call for Judicial Reforms
To address these systemic issues, Prof. Jinadu advocated for comprehensive judicial reforms. He proposed shifting away from overly formalistic legal practices towards a more inclusive, activist legal culture. “Our legal system must prioritize public interest and social justice. Without this shift, tackling corruption at its roots will remain a distant goal,” he argued.
Conclusion
Prof. Jinadu’s remarks are a sobering reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy. His call for vigilance, institutional reform, and an active citizenry underscores the urgency of preserving the integrity of future elections. With the 2027 polls on the horizon, his warnings serve as a clarion call for action against electoral and political corruption.
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