The warning was issued by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Plateau State, Professor Samuel Egwu, on Tuesday in Jos during a stakeholders’ meeting with political party leaders and candidates ahead of the forthcoming elections.
Egwu described the meeting as an important opportunity to educate political stakeholders on their responsibilities and the legal requirements for conducting credible elections. He stressed that politicians and electoral officials must respect the law and protect the integrity of votes cast by Nigerians.
According to him, electoral offences involving the manipulation of votes would attract serious consequences, regardless of whether the offenders were politicians, party agents or officials of the commission.
He emphasised that INEC staff would not be exempt from punishment if found guilty of interfering with election results or compromising the electoral process.
The REC also raised concerns about excessive spending during election campaigns, warning that the misuse of money could undermine the credibility of elections.
Speaking at the meeting, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Faniyan Ayodeji, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Nengi Jephtha, called on political parties and candidates to comply with electoral guidelines.
He noted that proper information, adherence to the rules and cooperation among political stakeholders were essential to preventing electoral violence and maintaining peace.
The police also urged party leaders and candidates to take stakeholders’ meetings seriously and ensure that their supporters conduct themselves responsibly throughout the electioneering period.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections continue, INEC has reiterated the importance of protecting the sanctity of the ballot and ensuring that the outcome of elections reflects the will of the electorate.
The commission’s warning serves as a reminder that electoral integrity is a shared responsibility and that anyone who attempts to undermine the process may face legal consequences.
