Nigeria: Voting intentions rise amid economic hardship

A recent National Voting Intentions Survey by Yiaga Africa indicates that 84 percent of Nigerians are likely or very likely to vote in the 2027 elections. This represents a significant increase from 73 percent recorded in March 2026, though the proportion of those who are ‘very likely’ to vote has seen a slight decline from 52 percent in late 2025 to 47 percent in September 2026.

Amidst these shifting political sentiments, Kenneth Okonkwo has criticized the economic conditions facing the country, specifically citing the sharp rise in fuel prices from ₦195 to ₦1,500 per litre and the depreciation of the naira. Okonkwo questioned the logic of citizens supporting current leadership given the increased cost of living, suggesting that those who maintain support despite such economic shifts may be benefiting from corruption.