Opposition Considers Boycott of 2027 Elections Over INEC Bias

Opposition parties in Nigeria are contemplating a boycott of the 2027 general elections, citing alleged bias from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The discussions are primarily led by Taminu Turaki, the faction leader of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

Concerns have been raised about INEC's actions, which are perceived as attempts to clear the political space for President Bola Tinubu's uncontested run. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has also expressed its leadership's concerns regarding the electoral process.

Ini Ememobong, speaking for the Turaki faction, emphasized that a boycott may be necessary to avoid legitimizing a compromised electoral process. He accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of deliberately weakening opposition parties to facilitate uncontested elections.

Recent actions by INEC, including the derecognition of the David Mark-led National Working Committee of the ADC, have deepened divisions among opposition parties. Despite these tensions, Bolaji Abdullahi of the ADC noted that the decision to boycott would ultimately rest with the party leadership.