The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral laws and ensure the prosecution and imprisonment of individuals found guilty of electoral fraud if elected president in 2027.
Obi made the pledge on Wednesday during an NDC town hall meeting in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where he outlined his proposed reforms aimed at promoting electoral transparency, accountability and public confidence in the democratic process.
The former Anambra State governor said his administration would prioritise reforms to strengthen political parties and improve the conduct of elections, stressing that electoral manipulation must attract serious legal consequences.
He maintained that officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other individuals found culpable in the manipulation of election results should face prosecution and imprisonment in accordance with the law.
Obi also called for stricter requirements for individuals seeking elective positions, proposing that political aspirants should provide evidence that they attended primary and secondary school.
He warned against the falsification of academic credentials, insisting that individuals who forge certificates or make false claims about their educational qualifications should be held accountable.
The NDC presidential candidate further stressed that the rule of law must apply equally to all Nigerians, irrespective of their political influence, public office or social standing.
According to him, his presidential ambition is driven by the desire to build a country where public institutions function effectively, electoral laws are respected and no individual is considered above the law.
Obi’s remarks come as political parties and prospective candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with electoral integrity, credible voting processes and institutional accountability expected to feature prominently in political debates.
However, any proposed changes to candidates’ eligibility requirements would have to comply with the relevant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and electoral laws.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are slated for February 6, 2027.
