Nigeria Could Face Civil War — Pat Utomi Sounds Alarm Over 2027 Election

Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, has warned that attempts to manipulate the outcome of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections could trigger a serious national crisis, including the possibility of civil conflict, if the will of voters is disregarded.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Utomi raised the concern in a post on his X account on Sunday while recounting his experience at a gathering in Manchester, United Kingdom, where discussions about Nigeria’s political situation took centre stage.

Utomi explained that he had attended a lunch gathering to which the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, was invited. However, the event reportedly turned into an informal town hall meeting, with participants raising questions about the country’s political challenges and the credibility of future elections.

He said several attendees expressed concern over what they perceived as the confidence of some public officials that the outcome of the 2027 elections had already been determined.

“Many of the questions suggest worry about the boldness of public officials in projecting rigging with results of elections of 2027 considered in the pocket,” Utomi stated.

The economist added that participants wanted to know how they could contribute to preventing electoral malpractice and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

According to him, the discussions reflected a strong determination among those present to oppose any attempt to undermine the credibility of the polls.

“They were energised to ask for how they could fight rigging,” he said.

Utomi warned that disregarding the choices of voters could have severe consequences for national stability, arguing that growing public resistance to electoral manipulation could heighten political tensions.

“The determination to do whatever will prevent election malpractice suggests we may see a civil war if power tries to muscle the will of the people this time,” he said.

His remarks come amid discussions about preparations for the 2027 general elections and concerns over electoral transparency, political accountability and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Utomi’s warning underscores the importance of credible elections, respect for voters’ choices and measures to prevent electoral malpractice as political parties and stakeholders prepare for the next general election.