Former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioner, Festus Okoye, has condemned the controversial ‘Rig and Die’ slogan ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing it as undemocratic and a threat to peaceful political participation.
Okoye, who represented the South-East at INEC and previously chaired its Information and Voter Education Committee, said no individual has the right to use force or violence against another person over alleged electoral offences.
He made the remarks during an appearance on Arise News on Tuesday evening, where he stressed that suspected cases of electoral malpractice should be reported to the appropriate security agencies rather than provoke threats or mob action.
According to him, Nigeria’s democratic system does not permit individuals to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the seriousness of an alleged electoral offence.
He said, “No individual, even under Section 132 of the Electoral Act, is permitted to treat anybody with the use of force or violence.”
Okoye further explained that anyone who believes an individual has committed an electoral offence has a responsibility to report the matter to lawful security agencies for investigation and appropriate action.
He warned against inciting members of the public to attack or threaten people suspected of manipulating election results, describing such conduct as self-help, which he said has no place in a democratic system.
The former INEC commissioner’s comments come amid growing controversy surrounding the ‘Rig and Die’ expression, which has gained attention in Nigeria’s political space ahead of the 2027 elections.
The slogan is being used by some political figures and commentators as a warning against electoral manipulation and attempts to undermine the choices of voters. However, its use has also generated concerns about political intimidation and the possibility of violence during the election period.
The expression attracted renewed attention in October 2026 following remarks by former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, during a political campaign in Delta State.
Omo-Agege had warned that anyone caught attempting to manipulate the 2027 election would face deadly consequences.
He reportedly declared: “Anybody who rigs the election on that day, we will kill him! If you don’t value your life, come and rig the election. It is rig and die.”
Former entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, had also used the expression in August 2025 while warning politicians against electoral manipulation.
Okoye’s intervention adds to ongoing discussions about the responsibility of political actors, security agencies and citizens in protecting the credibility of the 2027 elections.
His position is that allegations of electoral malpractice must be addressed through lawful institutions and procedures, rather than threats, violence or attempts by individuals to administer punishment themselves.
With political activities gradually intensifying ahead of the next general elections, concerns over electoral credibility, voter protection and peaceful participation remain central to the national conversation.
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