Nigerian political economist Pat Utomi has warned that manipulating the 2027 general election could trigger widespread unrest and potentially plunge the country into civil conflict.
Utomi said growing public concerns over electoral malpractice could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s political stability if the credibility of the next election is undermined.
In a post on X on Sunday, the professor said he witnessed strong public interest in electoral integrity during an informal town hall meeting in Manchester, United Kingdom.
The meeting took place during a lunch event to which Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), was invited.
Utomi’s warning comes amid growing political attention ahead of the 2027 general election, with electoral transparency and the credibility of the voting process expected to remain key issues in the run-up to the polls.
His remarks underscore concerns that disputes over election results and allegations of manipulation could deepen political tensions in Africa’s most populous country.
Nigeria has a history of contentious elections, with electoral irregularities and disputes over results frequently generating controversy among political parties, candidates and voters.
However, it remains unclear what specific developments or circumstances Utomi believes could lead to civil conflict if the 2027 election is manipulated.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is responsible for organising federal and state elections in Nigeria.
The 2027 election is expected to be a major test of public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions, particularly amid calls for credible polls and a transparent electoral process.
