2027: EFCC cannot stop vote buying, there’s poverty in Nigeria – Primate Ayodele
Primate Elijah Ayodele Critiques EFCC’s Ability to Combat Vote Buying Ahead of 2027 Elections
The leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has expressed skepticism regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) capacity to eliminate vote buying in Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 elections. In a statement issued by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Ayodele cited the desperation among Nigerian politicians as a key factor hindering effective enforcement.
According to Ayodele, should the EFCC intensify its efforts to arrest those involved in vote buying, a large majority of both voters and candidates would be implicated, rendering such actions impractical. He emphasized that the politicization of poverty has allowed candidates to exploit economic hardships during elections.
“EFCC cannot stop vote buying in Nigeria. Despite the threats, it will still be prevalent in the 2027 election because our politicians are too desperate,” Ayodele stated. He suggested that if the EFCC were to conduct arrests related to vote buying, it could lead to the detainment of approximately 98% of the electorate and candidates. “Most Nigerians would be sleeping in EFCC custody on election day; it’s practically impossible to end it here,” he added.
Ayodele also highlighted that many Nigerians face severe economic challenges, with some unable to afford basic meals. He asserted that for these individuals, vote buying can appear as a viable solution to their financial struggles.
“If Nigeria becomes a better country economically, where citizens can afford essentials, vote buying will cease to be a viable option,” he said. “Until then, it will remain a persistent issue.”
As the 2027 elections approach, the dialogue surrounding the integrity of the electoral process continues, with figures like Ayodele urging for substantial economic reforms to address the underlying issues contributing to vote buying.
