Most Public Office Holders Should Be In Prison — Ex-INEC Commissioner, Igini, Declares

Former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mike Igini, has warned that Nigeria’s 2027 general elections will serve as a major test of the country’s democratic institutions, saying electoral officials, the judiciary and politicians will all be held accountable for their actions.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Igini made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, where he expressed concern about the state of governance and the enforcement of laws in the country.

He argued that the credibility of the 2027 elections would depend not only on INEC’s performance but also on the conduct of its officials, judicial officers and politicians seeking public office.

Igini criticised what he described as the weakening of the rule of law, alleging that some individuals occupying public positions should face prosecution for their actions. He also expressed concern that Nigeria was increasingly being governed by the influence of individuals rather than by established legal principles.

“The 2027 general elections will be more than a test. INEC will be judged, and officials [and] judiciary will be judged. More importantly, the politicians who are seeking political office will be judged,” he said.

The former electoral commissioner also raised concerns about compliance with Section 97 of the Electoral Act, which he cited in discussing the rights and obligations of political candidates. He argued that the provision was being violated and called attention to the need for greater respect for electoral laws.

In another allegation, Igini claimed that some politicians had infiltrated National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) lists by inserting fake corps members to serve as ad hoc electoral staff, allegedly as part of efforts to manipulate election results.

The allegation raises questions about the integrity of the recruitment and deployment of temporary personnel during elections. However, the claim remains an allegation attributed to Igini.

He further argued that Nigeria’s economic challenges could not be adequately addressed without reforming its political system, insisting that the country’s development was closely connected to the quality of its political processes.

According to Igini, credible elections, respect for the rule of law and accountability among public officials are essential to strengthening democracy and creating the conditions necessary for national development.

His comments come as preparations and political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue, with concerns over electoral integrity, institutional independence and public confidence remaining central to discussions about Nigeria’s democratic future.