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| Buba Galadima |
Prominent New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) figure, Buba Galadima, has raised alarm over what he claims is an ongoing plan by the Federal Government to manipulate the 2027 general elections. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Galadima emphasized that the NNPP is prepared to resist any attempt to undermine the electoral process and is ready to “teach the government a lesson” when Nigerians head to the polls.
According to Galadima, the alleged scheme is straightforward. “What is going on is very easy, what this government is planning is to rig election in 2027,” he stated.
When asked how he arrived at this conclusion, Galadima cited recent actions by the government, including attempts to influence governors. “From their antics, they say it. When they go to a governor to ask him to decamp, if you don’t decamp we will take away the power from you—not that we will get you to be voted out. That’s what they do and they don’t understand,” he explained.
Galadima also expressed frustration with the current state of Nigerian politics, arguing that opportunists dominate the political space while genuine politicians are marginalized. Despite decades of involvement, he noted that he has never won an elective position, a result he attributes to being labeled a “bad politician” under Nigeria’s political culture.
The NNPP stalwart further criticized the conduct of recent by-elections in 13 states, accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of acting illegally. He highlighted that the constitution requires INEC to conduct by-elections within three months of a vacancy, yet some contests were held nearly two years later.
“I want to make a very important issue out of this by-election. All of them were conducted illegally by INEC,” Galadima asserted. He warned that such delayed elections could be challenged in court and potentially nullified, raising questions about the legality and fairness of the process.
The NNPP’s warning comes amid rising political tension as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, with several parties already gearing up for the contest. Galadima’s statements reflect deep mistrust in the government and electoral institutions, signaling potential friction in the run-up to the polls.
Political analysts note that allegations of election manipulation, whether verified or not, can have significant implications for public confidence in democratic processes. Galadima’s comments, particularly regarding the delayed by-elections and alleged pressure on governors, may fuel further scrutiny of the electoral system and the readiness of INEC to conduct free and fair elections in 2027.
As Nigerians look forward to the next general elections, Galadima’s statements serve as a reminder of the challenges facing the country’s political landscape. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to the law will be critical to maintaining trust in the electoral process and preventing disputes that could undermine democracy.
The NNPP’s readiness to resist perceived manipulation underscores a broader concern in Nigerian politics: the need for genuine competition, a level playing field, and respect for constitutional provisions. Whether Galadima’s warnings will translate into legal challenges, protests, or other forms of political resistance remains to be seen, but the party’s stance is clear—it intends to actively safeguard the integrity of the 2027 elections.
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