Unprosecuted Electoral Offences Threaten Nigeria’s Free, Fair Elections – NHRC

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised concerns over the failure to prosecute electoral offenders, warning that such impunity could undermine the nation’s efforts towards free and fair elections. According to the NHRC’s Chairman, Tony Ojukwu, the persistence of electoral offences remains a problem in Nigeria because perpetrators continue to operate with impunity. Speaking to Premium Times Nigeria, Ojukwu highlighted that the commission had documented numerous cases of vote-buying, thuggery, and violence during previous elections, but few of the offenders had been brought to justice. This, he said, sends a dangerous message to would-be electoral offenders that they can engage in such activities with impunity, potentially jeopardizing the integrity of future elections. Ojukwu urged relevant authorities to prioritize the prosecution of electoral offenders and to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. The NHRC’s warning comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, which are expected to be a critical test of Nigeria’s democratic progress.