ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged Nigerians, particularly young voters, to reject vote-buying and support candidates based on competence, integrity and their ability to deliver effective leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku made the appeal while addressing supporters and party members, stressing that the future of Nigeria depends on citizens making informed electoral choices rather than being influenced by financial inducements or material gifts during election campaigns.
The former presidential candidate said democracy can only thrive when voters prioritise the qualifications, vision and track records of candidates instead of accepting temporary incentives that do not address the country’s long-term challenges. He argued that exchanging votes for money or food items undermines good governance and weakens public accountability.
According to Atiku, many of Nigeria’s economic and social problems are linked to poor leadership, adding that electing competent leaders remains the most effective way to improve the country’s economy, create jobs, strengthen institutions and provide better public services.
He specifically appealed to young Nigerians, describing them as the country’s largest voting bloc and an important force for democratic change. He encouraged them to actively participate in the electoral process, obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and use their votes to demand accountable leadership.
Atiku also urged Nigerians to resist attempts by politicians to influence elections through gifts such as bags of rice, cash or other material items. He said while such incentives may provide temporary relief, they do not solve the underlying issues affecting millions of citizens, including unemployment, inflation, insecurity and inadequate infrastructure.
The former Vice President maintained that elected leaders should be judged by their policies, experience and commitment to national development rather than campaign promises unsupported by credible plans. He added that voters have the responsibility to carefully examine candidates before casting their ballots.
He further stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, calling on political parties, candidates, security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure that future elections are conducted peacefully, transparently and in accordance with the law.
Political analysts say concerns over vote-buying have remained a major issue in several Nigerian elections despite repeated efforts by electoral authorities and civil society organisations to discourage the practice. They argue that voter education and stronger enforcement of electoral laws are essential to reducing electoral malpractice.
Observers also note that the increasing participation of young people in politics could significantly influence the outcome of future elections if they remain actively engaged in voter registration, civic education and peaceful democratic participation.
Atiku reiterated that Nigeria’s future depends on citizens making responsible electoral decisions, urging voters to support leaders with the capacity to address the country’s pressing challenges rather than those relying on financial inducements to secure votes.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum, political stakeholders are expected to intensify campaigns across the country. Analysts believe the debate over competence, accountability and electoral integrity will remain central issues as political parties seek to convince Nigerians to support their candidates at the polls.
