In this report, SEKYEN WALSHAK writes that residents of Plateau State have expressed growing anxiety over the credibility of the 2027 general elections, blaming alleged manipulation and irregularities during party primaries for deepening distrust in the country’s democratic process
Across Jos, conversations with residents reveal a rising wave of public scepticism about the ability of political parties and electoral institutions to deliver free and fair elections in 2027.
Many respondents say the conduct of recent party primaries has further eroded confidence, describing the political environment as tense, uncertain, and increasingly disconnected from the expectations of ordinary citizens.
Rising concerns over party primaries
Mr. Samson Iliya of Gyel, Jos South LGA, said the recently concluded primaries have already shaped public perception ahead of the 2027 elections, alleging that the process left many citizens dissatisfied.
He said, “I think the general election that is coming is going to be a dicey one. People are complaining about the conduct of the primaries because, to them, they were not free and fair.”
He added that public frustration could translate into protest votes, especially against the ruling party, warning that dissatisfaction among party members may fuel anti-party activities.
Mrs. Nankwat Dogara from Eto Baba also expressed doubts, saying the alleged manipulation of party primaries has made it difficult for citizens to trust the electoral process.
She wondered: “If party members cannot choose candidates freely, then what hope is there for ordinary Nigerians during the general elections?”
She described the situation as a reflection of deeper democratic challenges, warning that continued irregularities could further weaken public confidence in elections.
Allegations of manipulation, exclusion
Mrs. Rejoice Andrew of Zaramaganda, Jos South LGA, said she believes powerful individuals already influence electoral outcomes, adding that the will of ordinary citizens is being increasingly ignored.
She said, “The whole process is not free and fair. It feels like there are people somewhere deciding what will happen, and whatever they say is final.”
She lamented that citizens’ voices are being sidelined, though she noted that meaningful reforms could still improve the situation before 2027.
Mr. Arbet Kefas of Fudawa, Jos North LGA, alleged that irregularities were visible during several party primaries, particularly in legislative contests.
He said, “In some places, results were simply declared. There were irregularities in several areas during the primaries.”
Despite his concerns, he expressed hope that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would ensure credible elections, stressing that voter participation remains important.
Fear of political desperation, uncertain future
According to Kefas, desperation among politicians across party lines poses a serious threat to the credibility of the 2027 elections.
He warned: “Many politicians are willing to go to any length to win. There are desperate aspirants in different political parties, and that alone is a major concern.”
He, however, maintained that the credibility of the elections would ultimately depend on INEC’s ability to conduct a transparent process that reflects the will of the people.
As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, the concerns raised by residents reflect a broader national anxiety over internal party disputes, alleged manipulation, and weakening trust in democratic institutions.
For many citizens, the coming elections will be a critical test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience and the capacity of its electoral system to restore public confidence.