Lawyer Warns Against Vote Buying Ahead of 2027 Elections

Mrs. Jenifer Achimuagole-Obia, a Lagos-based legal practitioner, cautioned against vote buying and selling in the lead-up to the 2027 general election, stating that these practices are criminal offenses under Nigerian law. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), she highlighted that the Electoral Act 2022 imposes liability on both those who offer inducements and voters who accept them.

Section 121 of the Electoral Act 2022 addresses the giving, offering, or promising of money, gifts, loans, or other valuable considerations intended to influence voting decisions. Achimuagole-Obia noted that accepting such inducements is also an offense, with penalties including fines of up to N500,000 and prison terms of up to 12 months.

She warned that political actors should not view cash inducements as harmless strategies, as liability could extend to those who facilitate electoral bribery. Candidates may also be held accountable if such acts occur with their knowledge and consent.