RismadarVoice Reporters
November 9, 2026
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has condemned the use of the “rig and die” slogan by some political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could trigger violence and endanger electoral personnel.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, issued the warning during a media engagement forum in Enugu.
Haruna said electoral officials, including temporary personnel, who compromise the integrity of elections would face sanctions under applicable laws.
He cautioned political actors against statements capable of threatening presiding officers, party agents, election observers and other participants in the electoral process.
According to him, disagreements over election outcomes should be resolved through lawful procedures, including complaints to INEC, security agencies and the courts.
The national commissioner also called for stronger cooperation between the electoral body and media organisations to promote credible, transparent and peaceful elections.
He warned journalists against publishing unverified results, manipulated videos and misleading political information that could undermine public confidence.
Haruna stressed that only duly authorised INEC returning officers could officially declare election results, urging media practitioners to distinguish projections from confirmed outcomes.
He further encouraged journalists to provide balanced coverage of political parties and candidates while giving adequate attention to women, young people and persons with disabilities.
Speaking on professional standards in election reporting, Osaretin Imahheyierobo urged journalists to familiarise themselves with electoral laws, INEC guidelines and the Nigerian Broadcasting Code.
He recommended dedicated election reporting desks, stronger fact-checking procedures and better understanding of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and INEC Result Viewing Portal.
Meanwhile, Enugu State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Chukwuemeka Chukwu, disclosed that the commission had received approximately 35,000 Permanent Voter Cards for distribution across the state’s 260 wards.
He urged journalists to support voter education and encourage eligible residents to collect their cards.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu State Council, Obinna Ogbuka, expressed concern over declining public confidence in INEC and inadequate logistical support for journalists covering elections.
Participants also called on the commission to address shortcomings experienced during previous elections, particularly challenges associated with electronic transmission of results in 2023.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to credible elections and urged political stakeholders, journalists and voters to promote peaceful participation in the democratic process.
