Abia Governor Alex Otti Warns 2027 Election Riggers, Says “Nigeria Won’t Tolerate Manipulation Again”
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has issued a strong warning to politicians and individuals planning to rig the forthcoming 2027 general elections, declaring that Nigerians are now more politically conscious and ready to defend their votes.
Speaking during a state function in Umuahia, Governor Otti emphasized that the era of electoral manipulation and impunity is over, noting that citizens will no longer allow their collective will to be subverted by corrupt political actors. He maintained that transparent and credible elections are essential to the nation’s democratic progress.
Otti, who emerged as governor under the Labour Party after a hard-fought 2023 election, recalled the numerous challenges he faced before reclaiming his mandate. He said those experiences strengthened his resolve to ensure that no future election in Abia or Nigeria is hijacked by powerful interests.
“Let it be known that 2027 will not be business as usual,” Otti warned. “The people now have the power, and they will use it. Anyone who attempts to manipulate the process will face the full weight of the law.”
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to improve its systems and ensure transparency in result transmission, adding that credible elections would reduce post-election violence and restore citizens’ trust in governance.
The governor also called on security agencies to remain neutral and protect voters rather than politicians, stressing that democracy thrives only when the people’s votes count.
Otti’s statement has since sparked nationwide reactions, with many Nigerians praising his courage and calling for other governors to adopt similar zero-tolerance stances against electoral malpractice.
