The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its determination to combat vote buying and regulate campaign expenditures in the upcoming 2027 general elections. During a stakeholders’ meeting in Anambra State, Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, made it clear that the commission would not tolerate unethical campaign strategies.
Emphasizing the need for focus on issue-based campaigning, Agwu stated, “We don’t want a repeat of what happened during the 2025 governorship election in Anambra State,” urging candidates to concentrate on the policies they would implement rather than engaging in personal attacks.
Agwu further encouraged the public to report instances of vote buying, asserting that the responsibility for such acts lies with the political parties themselves. She warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the electoral process using thugs would face consequences, emphasizing that INEC has made extensive preparations to ensure a smooth election.
Meanwhile, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike criticized INEC for its inaction following derogatory comments made by Rotimi Amaechi, the Vice Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress. Wike urged the commission to act decisively against such incitements and to uphold a standard for campaigns based on substantive issues.
The minister also expressed his concerns regarding an indefinite strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress, labeling it politically motivated, and warned that the administration would implement a ‘no work, no pay’ policy for striking workers.
