Constitutional lawyer and public affairs commentator Justice Osai Ahiakwo has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and other political actors against making financial pledges capable of compromising the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.

Ahiakwo’s warning follows reports that Wike promised ₦10 million to each councillor who successfully delivers their ward for President Bola Tinubu during the upcoming 2027 general elections, an offer the minister defended as a reward for grassroots political mobilisation rather than vote-buying.

In a statement issued in Calabar on Thursday, November 12, Ahiakwo maintained that labeling financial incentives as "mobilisation rewards" does not shield them from legal scrutiny. Citing Section 125(1)(a) of the Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits corrupt gifts, promises, or agreements aimed at inducing an electoral outcome, the legal practitioner emphasized that the intent and circumstances surrounding such offers must be thoroughly examined.

"The electorate, not politicians or their associates, own the votes... Political power is temporary, but the damage caused by undermining democratic institutions could last for generations," Ahiakwo stated.

While acknowledging that legitimate campaign logistics and genuine services are permitted under the law, Ahiakwo questioned the premise of elected councillors being tasked with "delivering" citizens' votes to political benefactors, stressing that no public official holds proprietary rights over the choices of the electorate.

To safeguard the 2027 general elections, the commentator called on key democratic institutions to take proactive steps:

He cautioned INEC TO issue clearer guidelines distinguishing lawful campaign mobilisation from prohibited electoral inducement, while establishing accessible reporting channels for violations.

He also called on law enforcement to investigate and prosecute suspected electoral offences impartially, regardless of the political status of those involved.

National Assembly & Political Parties: Strengthen legislative oversight on campaign financing and enforce stricter internal party discipline against the abuse of public resources.

ID