SNOW TV NEWS DESK
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised concerns over the growing use of the “rig and die” slogan among political actors ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, warning that such provocative rhetoric could fuel political violence and threaten the safety of electoral officials and other citizens.
The commission described the slogan as dangerous and irresponsible, stressing that elections should be a democratic exercise, not a battle in which lives are put at risk over political interests.
Mohammed Kudu Haruna, an INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, gave the warning during a media engagement in Enugu involving journalists and media executives from the South-East, South-South, and South-West.
Haruna noted that inflammatory statements, threats, and aggressive political campaigns could expose presiding officers, temporary election workers, party agents, and observers to unnecessary danger. He urged politicians and their supporters to exercise restraint, adding that anyone dissatisfied with an election outcome should seek justice through established legal channels, rather than resorting to intimidation or violence.
He also made it clear that INEC would not shield its own officials from accountability. According to him, electoral officers, including ad hoc staff, who are found guilty of manipulating or compromising the electoral process will face appropriate legal consequences.
Beyond political conduct, Haruna highlighted the important role of the media in protecting the credibility of the 2027 elections. He called for stronger collaboration between INEC and media organizations, noting that public trust in elections depends largely on responsible journalism, accurate information, and balanced reporting.
He cautioned journalists against publishing unverified election results, manipulated videos, and sensational reports capable of heightening political tension. He also warned against presenting projections or unofficial figures as certified results.
“Results are declared only by the Commission through its duly appointed returning officers. Projections and unofficial figures must be clearly labelled as such,” he said.
Haruna further encouraged journalists to verify allegations involving INEC through official channels before publication and to distinguish between incidents they personally witnessed and information obtained from third parties.
He also urged media organizations to give greater attention to the challenges faced by women, young people, and persons with disabilities in participating in elections.
Additionally, he called for increased public education on voter registration and Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), accreditation procedures, electronic transmission of results, and peaceful participation.
With preparations for the 2027 elections gaining momentum, INEC’s warning underscores a critical message: political competition must not come at the expense of human lives, while electoral credibility must be protected through accountability, responsible communication, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
