2027: Gov aspirants spent N30bn on primaries – EFCC chair

The staggering cost of political primaries in Nigeria is fueling corruption and threatening democratic governance, warned Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Speaking at the University of Ilorin, Olukoyede revealed that some governorship aspirants reportedly spent between N20 billion and N30 billion to secure electoral victories in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

This immense financial pressure, Olukoyede explained, compels elected officials to divert public funds after assuming office to recover their substantial investments. "Leaders who buy their way into office are more likely to focus on recovering their investments rather than serving the public interest," he stated, highlighting how the commercialization of votes weakens the foundation of good governance by compromising the political recruitment process.

The EFCC chairman emphasized the agency's commitment to combating vote-buying and other electoral offenses that undermine Nigeria's electoral integrity. He noted that the EFCC has made numerous arrests and secured convictions for electoral misconduct, involving politicians, election officials, and other individuals.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the EFCC plans to deploy advanced technological tools, including drones, to enhance election monitoring, particularly in tracking financial inducements at polling units. Olukoyede urged political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric, calling for collaborative efforts among stakeholders like the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media to ensure peaceful and credible elections.

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Leaders who buy their way into office are more likely to focus on recovering their investments rather than serving the public interest.