The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has vowed to prosecute anyone involved in election rigging if he wins the 2027 presidential election, promising tougher electoral laws and reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Obi made the pledge on Wednesday, October 28, during an NDC town hall meeting in Nasarawa State, where he addressed supporters on electoral integrity, candidates’ qualifications and accountability in the conduct of elections. Responding to a question about electoral manipulation, the former Anambra State governor warned that his party would not tolerate attempts to undermine the outcome of the next general election. He also promised that anyone found guilty of electoral fraud under his administration would face legal consequences.
Obi said his administration would prioritise reforms aimed at strengthening political parties and improving Nigeria’s electoral process to prevent manipulation. He expressed confidence that a stronger electoral system would make it difficult for individuals or groups to influence election results illegally.
He said: “And let me assure you number two, if I’m elected the President of Nigeria, nobody will rig election in this country again because the first thing we need to do is to strengthen our parties, strengthen the process.”
The NDC presidential candidate also called for stricter enforcement of educational requirements for individuals seeking elective positions. According to him, candidates should have verifiable academic backgrounds, including evidence of attending primary and secondary schools.
Obi warned that anyone who falsifies academic certificates or makes fraudulent claims about their educational qualifications would face imprisonment under the laws he intends to enforce.
“If you didn’t attend any of them or forge your certificate, you go to jail,” he said.
He extended his warning to officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other individuals involved in election administration, declaring that anyone caught manipulating election results under his watch would be prosecuted.
“Any INEC official, anybody who is involved with elections under my watch that rigs elections will go to jail,” Obi declared.
The former Anambra State governor further stressed that respect for the rule of law would be a central principle of his proposed administration. He maintained that public officials and ordinary citizens must be held to the same legal standards, regardless of their positions or influence.
“Under my watch, Nigeria must be a country that has a law, and both from the number one person to the last person must obey the rule of law,” he said. “Nobody must be above the law; nobody will behave rascally.”
Obi said his presidential ambition was driven by his desire to transform Nigeria through stronger institutions, credible elections and greater accountability in public office.
He urged supporters to remain committed to the vision of building a country where electoral laws are respected and public institutions operate according to established rules.
“That’s why we are doing what we are doing. We want to change Nigeria. A new Nigeria is possible, and that new Nigeria will be OK,” he added.
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