By Our Correspondent
National News – The Movement for Credible Elections has warned that Nigeria risks sliding back to the pariah state status experienced under the late military ruler, Gen Sani Abacha, if alleged manipulations of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections are not halted.
Prof Pat Utomi, leader of the group, expressed concern over attempts to amend the Electoral Act 2026 in ways that could undermine transparency and voter confidence.
Critics, including a faction of Afenifere and the Inter-Party Advisory Council, have raised alarms over provisions on indirect primaries, electronic transmission of results, and the removal of certificate forgery as grounds for election petitions.
Utomi compared current political maneuvers to the 1997/1998 elections, warning that autocratic tendencies are resurfacing and could threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
He called on Nigerians, especially those in the diaspora, to draw international attention to these developments and prevent history from repeating itself.
Highlighting the rising corruption and declining governance standards, Utomi stated that the living conditions for citizens today are worse than during Abacha’s era, despite higher oil revenues.
He urged authorities to review the “doctored electoral acts” or consider the resignation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) leadership to restore credibility.
Utomi also warned that political actors exploiting ethnic and political divisions could spark unrest.
To counter voter apathy and safeguard electoral integrity, the Movement for Credible Elections plans to deploy independent result portals, recruit trained vote marshals, and run extensive voter education campaigns.
Utomi also criticized INEC for interfering in party primaries, which he described as unconstitutional and limiting freedom of association.
Calling on elder statesmen, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to intervene, Utomi emphasized the need for active civic engagement and non-violent resistance to protect democracy.
“Judgment is around the corner. The people must stand up now to save the future for their children,” he said.
The group pledged to pursue legal action, public advocacy, and collaboration with civil society to ensure credible, transparent, and fair elections for 2027.
