Oscar Okhifo
The head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has expressed worries about the increasing role of funds in Nigeria's election system, stating that certain candidates for governor invest anywhere from ₦20 billion to ₦30 billion to win elections.
On Wednesday, during the first session of the High-Level Guest Speakers' Series hosted by the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies (CPSS) at the University of Ilorin, Olukoyede stated that this trend has emerged as a significant factor fueling corruption and poses a risk to the nation's democracy.
The head of the EFCC, who gave a speech entitled "Reducing Risks and Engaging Key Stakeholders for Peaceful and Valid 2027 Elections in Nigeria," pointed out that political figures who spend large amounts during elections frequently face demands to recover their costs once they take up positions.
He stated that the high expense involved in running for office leads to the misuse of public money and weakens responsibility, since chosen representatives focus more on recouping their monetary losses than providing effective leadership and public assistance.
Throughout history, campaign expenditures in Nigeria have stayed significant, yet in recent times they have surged to levels experts refer to as "unprecedented."
Opponents claim that conditions have deteriorated partially due to lenient punishments for those who violate election laws, leading many to wonder why no significant political "fall guy" has been established as an example.
Another increasing worry among Nigerians involves the effects of these enormous campaign costs, as numerous people question how chosen representatives might avoid misappropriating government funds following such huge investments to win their positions.
It has been reported that certain candidates resort to selling private assets or securing substantial loans to fund their election efforts, intensifying concerns regarding potential corruption after the elections and the challenges of economic revival.
"The commodification of votes undermines the basis for effective governance as it affects the selection of political leaders. Politicians who secure their positions through financial means tend to prioritize recouping their expenses over acting in the best interests of the people," Olukoyede stated.
The head of the EFCC emphasized the agency's commitment to combat vote-purchasing and various types of monetary incentives that jeopardize the integrity of electoral processes nationwide.
He revealed that the organization had detained multiple individuals associated with vote-purchasing and other election-related violations in past elections, noting that several convictions have already taken place.
As he stated, individuals found guilty of electoral wrongdoing consist of politicians, election workers, and others involved in undermining the fairness of the voting procedure.
He cautioned that not holding those who violate election rules accountable would promote immunity and continue eroding democratic systems, emphasizing that no person should be protected from facing consequences for breaking election regulations.
Olukoyede further stated that the committee intends to use drones and additional technology to enhance monitoring and identify instances of vote-purchasing and monetary incentives in the upcoming 2027 national elections.
He called on political groups, contenders, and their followers to concentrate on campaign strategies centered around issues and steer clear of provocative remarks that could provoke conflict before, during, and following the voting process.
The head of the EFCC also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), law enforcement bodies, non-governmental organizations, the press, and other relevant parties to enhance cooperation in facilitating free, open, and reliable elections.
Previously, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), characterized electoral fraud as a major obstacle to Nigeria's democratic growth, emphasizing that free and fair elections are essential for national stability, economic advancement, and public confidence in governance.
During his opening speech, Professor G.A. Animasawun, the head of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, stated that the lecture series aims to promote discussion between decision-makers, security specialists, election administrators, and community organizations regarding effective steps to ensure the fairness of the 2027 national polls.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
