Femi Falana warns of risks to Nigeria’s 2027 elections

Human rights activist Femi Falana and Bishop Mike Okonkwo have expressed concerns regarding the integrity of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 general elections. Speaking at the 25th Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture in Lagos, the speakers warned that the nation's democracy is currently a “mockery” due to systemic issues.

Falana highlighted the rising trend of vote-buying, alleging that between ₦50 billion and ₦110 billion was spent during the Osun State governorship election. He noted that per-vote payments have increased significantly, rising from approximately ₦5,000 in Ekiti to as much as ₦50,000 in Osun, warning that costs could reach ₦100,000 per voter by 2027.

In addition to financial corruption, Falana cited political violence and the imposition of “consensus” candidates during rigged party primaries. Both Falana and Okonkwo urged Nigerian citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, secure their voter cards, and hold leaders accountable rather than leaving the electoral process to politicians.