2027: INEC Warns Against Vote Tampering, Threatens Offenders With Jail Term

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned politicians, party agents and its own officials against tampering with votes ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning that offenders risk imprisonment and fines.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Plateau State, Professor Samuel Egwu, gave the warning on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting with political party leaders and candidates in Jos.

Egwu described the meeting as an important engagement ahead of the elections, saying political parties and candidates had significant responsibilities in ensuring a credible electoral process.

He said the gathering was organised to provide electoral information and remind stakeholders of their legal obligations before, during and after the polls.

According to him, anyone who interferes with the integrity of votes, regardless of their position, would face the consequences prescribed by law.

“As I sit here with my Heads of Department and Electoral Officers, I have told them that there are provisions in the law, if they breach them, particularly if they tamper with the integrity of the vote, they will go to jail. It is the same with anyone else who would want to tamper with the integrity of votes,” Egwu said.

The REC also expressed concern about excessive spending during elections, warning that the misuse of money could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

He acknowledged that political campaigns required funding but cautioned candidates against deploying excessive financial resources to influence electoral outcomes.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Faniyan Ayodeji, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Nengi Jephtha, stressed the importance of providing accurate information and complying with electoral guidelines.

He said proper communication and adherence to established rules would help reduce violence and conflicts during the election period.

The police commissioner urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to respect electoral regulations and cooperate with security agencies to ensure peaceful elections.

He assured stakeholders that the police remained committed to supporting a credible electoral process, adding that compliance by political actors would make the task of maintaining peace easier.

The warning comes as political parties and candidates prepare for the 2027 general elections, with electoral authorities emphasising the need to protect the integrity of votes and strengthen public confidence in the democratic process.

Egwu urged political stakeholders to take electoral guidelines seriously, warning that violations could attract legal consequences.