The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral laws and ensure that individuals found guilty of electoral offences face prosecution and imprisonment if he wins the 2027 presidential election.

Obi made the commitment on Wednesday during an NDC town hall meeting in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where he outlined his proposed reforms to improve electoral transparency, accountability and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

The former Anambra State governor said his administration would prioritise strengthening political parties and improving the electoral system to prevent manipulation and ensure that election results reflect the choices of voters.

He maintained that electoral fraud should attract serious legal consequences, including imprisonment for officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other individuals found culpable in manipulating election results.

According to Obi, enforcing electoral laws without favouritism would be essential to building a credible democratic system in which public officials are held accountable for their actions.

Obi Proposes Stricter Educational Requirements for Political Candidates

Beyond electoral offences, Obi called for stricter requirements for individuals seeking elective positions in Nigeria.

He proposed that aspiring political officeholders should demonstrate that they attended both primary and secondary school.

The NDC presidential candidate also warned against the presentation of forged academic certificates or false claims about educational qualifications by individuals seeking public office.

He argued that candidates who falsify their educational backgrounds should face legal consequences, stressing the importance of honesty and accountability among those seeking leadership positions.

Obi maintained that the law should apply equally to everyone, irrespective of political influence, social standing or official position.

He said his ambition was driven by the desire to build a country where public institutions function effectively, electoral rules are respected and no individual is considered above the law.

Electoral Credibility Emerges as a Key Issue Ahead of 2027

Obi’s remarks come as political parties and prospective candidates intensify preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

Electoral transparency, the credibility of voting procedures and the enforcement of existing laws are expected to remain important issues in the political debate ahead of the polls.

His proposed reforms would require appropriate legal and institutional measures to ensure effective implementation. Any changes to educational qualifications or other eligibility requirements for candidates would also need to comply with Nigeria’s Constitution and electoral legislation.

The former Anambra governor’s pledge forms part of his broader call for institutional accountability and improvements to Nigeria’s democratic process.

As the 2027 election approaches, the implementation of electoral laws, the conduct of political parties and the ability of election officials to operate independently are likely to remain central to discussions about the credibility of the country’s electoral system.