2027: Obi vows to jail election riggers if elected
Peter Obi Vows to Enforce Strict Penalties for Election Rigging
LAGOS, Nigeria — Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), pledged to impose strict penalties on anyone found guilty of election rigging during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Thursday, September 24, 2026. He stated that even manipulation of a single vote would result in imprisonment under his administration.
Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, emphasized his commitment to upholding electoral integrity and promoting democratic governance as the nation approaches the 2027 presidential election. He asserted that his administration would adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward electoral malpractice.
“I have said it, and I will say it again: if I am the sitting president of this country, anyone who rigs elections will face imprisonment. Even for one vote, you will be in jail,” Obi declared.
In his remarks, Obi also committed to protecting opposition parties from intimidation and vowed to involve them in discussions on critical national issues. “No political party will be harassed; we will support them,” he stated, adding that he would seek collaboration with opposition parties on matters requiring consensus, especially during challenging times.
Obi expressed his intention to engage with opposition representatives whenever he travels abroad, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in governance.
“I won’t be on holiday; I must be in Nigeria. Nobody will need to look for me,” he insisted, emphasizing that he would remain accessible to the public if elected.
Additionally, Obi criticized current restrictions on campaign activities, recalling his own governance experience in Anambra. He noted that he allowed political opponents to campaign freely in the state, citing his provision of transportation for former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola during a campaign visit, despite differing political affiliations.
Obi also mentioned accompanying former President Olusegun Obasanjo during a campaign for Andy Uba in Anambra, underscoring his belief that allowing opponents to campaign is essential to a functioning democracy.
“That’s democracy, because I wanted the people to vote. There was no issue,” he concluded.
