Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of colluding with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to manipulate the upcoming 2027 general elections, sounding a serious alarm about Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
Amaechi, a prominent figure in the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement, claimed that INEC’s recent voter registration updates and polling unit allocations disproportionately favor APC strongholds. “INEC is helping the APC hijack the electoral process, undermining the will of 80 million voters,” he asserted, citing unverified reports of 30% irregularities in the 2023 elections as a precursor.
Amaechi, who contested the 2023 presidential primaries, pointed to alleged pre-loaded voter lists and delayed result transmissions in Rivers and Lagos states, where APC holds sway, as evidence of a coordinated effort. The accusation has intensified political tensions, with the coalition, backed by 1 million supporters, demanding an independent audit of INEC’s systems by July 15.
INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu dismissed the claims as baseless, affirming the commission’s neutrality and citing a $200 million investment in electoral technology. However, 70% of opposition leaders, including Peter Obi, support Amaechi’s call, while APC’s Nyesom Wike labeled it a “desperate smear,” escalating the debate ahead of the 2027 campaign season.