2027: INEC Warns Against ‘Rig and Die’ Slogan

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political actors against promoting the controversial “Rig and Die” slogan ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, saying it could encourage violence and endanger innocent Nigerians.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, raised the concern at a media engagement in Enugu.

Haruna, represented by Enugu State Resident Electoral Commissioner Chukwuemeka Chukwu, warned that inflammatory political statements could threaten voters, electoral officials, party agents and election observers.

The engagement, themed “Ethical and Professional Standards in Election Reporting Ahead of the 2027 General Election,” focused on responsible political communication and credible election reporting.

Why INEC Opposes ‘Rig and Die’

Haruna explained that associating electoral malpractice with death could create dangerous situations at polling units, particularly when disputes arise over voting procedures or election results.

He warned that ordinary Nigerians working as presiding officers, collation officers and temporary electoral staff could become targets of attacks following unverified allegations of rigging.

According to him, delays in announcing results, technical difficulties or rumours about electoral manipulation could provoke violence if political supporters interpret such incidents as deliberate attempts to compromise an election.

INEC maintained that electoral rigging is a criminal offence punishable under the Electoral Act 2026 and should be addressed through established legal procedures.

The commission urged citizens to report suspected electoral offences to INEC and security agencies, while pursuing disputes through the courts where necessary.

Haruna also warned that electoral personnel found participating in malpractice would face sanctions under the law.

How Omo-Agege’s Statement Sparked Controversy

The controversy followed remarks by former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege during a political event in Delta State on October 23, 2026.

Omo-Agege, who is seeking the Delta Central senatorial seat under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), warned that individuals attempting to manipulate the 2027 elections could face deadly consequences.

His remarks, which included the phrase “Rig and Die,” attracted criticism over the possibility of encouraging political violence.

Following the backlash, his media aide, Godwin Anaughe, defended the statement, explaining that the warning was directed at individuals involved in electoral manipulation and the theft of election materials rather than innocent voters.

However, critics have questioned whether threats of violence can be justified as a strategy for preventing electoral fraud.

Former INEC Commissioner Rejects Slogan

Former INEC National Commissioner Festus Okoye has also criticised the slogan, describing it as undemocratic and inconsistent with the principles of peaceful elections.

Speaking on ARISE News on Tuesday, Okoye maintained that no individual has the legal authority to attack another person over allegations of electoral malpractice.

He explained that suspected offenders should be reported to security agencies for investigation and possible prosecution.

His remarks reinforced INEC’s position that protecting election results must not involve threats, intimidation or unlawful retaliation.

Opposition Questions INEC’s Response

The controversy has also generated political reactions, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) questioning whether INEC is responding consistently to threats from different political actors.

According to a report by Punch, the party criticised what it described as the commission’s failure to address an alleged threat involving firearms against opposition voters with the same urgency.

The ADC argued that all statements capable of intimidating voters or encouraging political violence should receive equal scrutiny, regardless of the party involved.

Although the party acknowledged the need to condemn inflammatory rhetoric, it maintained that INEC must demonstrate impartiality in addressing electoral threats.

INEC Warns Against Fake Election Results

Beyond the controversial slogan, INEC also cautioned journalists and political supporters against circulating unverified election results, manipulated videos and misleading information.

Haruna stressed that polling-unit figures and unofficial projections should not be presented as final election outcomes.

He explained that election results can only be formally declared by INEC through authorised returning officers.

The commission urged media organisations to verify information before publication, avoid sensational reporting and distinguish confirmed results from political claims.

INEC also emphasised voter education, responsible reporting and cooperation among electoral stakeholders as important measures for maintaining public confidence in the 2027 elections.

The growing debate over “Rig and Die” has brought renewed attention to electoral security, political intimidation and the responsibility of public figures to promote peaceful participation.

With preparations for the 2027 elections gathering momentum, INEC maintains that preventing electoral fraud must be pursued through lawful accountability rather than threats of violence.