Free and Fair Isn’t Enough!” Cardinal Onaiyekan Reveals Why Nigerians’ Votes Could Still Be Meaningless In 2027

Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Abuja, has voiced concerns that Nigerians’ votes may ultimately have little impact in the 2027 general elections, even if the polls are widely regarded as free and fair.

Speaking during an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Friday, the cleric alleged that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is determined to secure victory in the next election by every available means.

According to Onaiyekan, the federal government possesses significant advantages that could be used in ways that undermine the true value of citizens’ votes. He also questioned the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), despite assurances from President Tinubu that the electoral body remains impartial.

“We’re worried that the Tinubu administration is focused on winning the 2027 elections by all means,” he said.

He argued that the government has extensive resources at its disposal and warned that their deployment could make the outcome of the election fail to reflect the genuine choice of the electorate, even if the process appears free and fair.

The cardinal stressed that Nigeria must reform its electoral system to guarantee elections that are not only free and fair but also transparent and credible, warning that failure to do so could create serious challenges for the country.

He also cautioned against the emergence of a one-party state, saying such a development would be unhealthy for a democracy. While acknowledging that it is unrealistic to expect the president to work against his own political interests, Onaiyekan maintained that incumbency should not provide an unfair advantage.

“The president has all the powers of incumbency, but when it comes to the election, he is a candidate like every other contestant,” he added.