ADC Raises Alarm Over 2027 Election Manipulation and Intimidation

The African Democratic Congress (ADC)has raised concerns over the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning against manipulation, intimidation, and the misuse of state institutions. ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark made the remarks in Abuja during a meeting with an International Republican Institute (IRI) delegation led by its African Regional Director, Jenai Cox.

Mark described credible elections as non-negotiable and condemned the violence and intimidation reportedly witnessed during the recent Osun governorship election, which he said resulted in at least 30 deaths.

Mark stressed that elections should not be treated as a “do-or-die” affair or a declaration of war, but as a democratic mechanism through which citizens freely choose their leaders. He said the ADC would support elections conducted in a secure environment where votes are counted transparently, and legitimate mandates are respected, while welcoming IRI's pre-election assessment mission as an opportunity to identify weaknesses and strengthen confidence in Nigeria's electoral system. He also urged stakeholders to ensure citizens can exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.

Cox explained that the IRI delegation was in Nigeria to assess preparations for the 2027 elections and engage political parties, civil society groups and other stakeholders on the state of the electoral process.

She noted that members of the delegation had observed the recent Osun and Ekiti off-cycle elections, continuing IRI's longstanding involvement in Nigerian elections since the return to democracy in 1999. The assessment mission is expected to conclude by the end of the week, after which IRI plans to issue recommendations based on its observations and stakeholder consultations.