BREAKING NEWS: So Many INEC Officials And Those Who Were Involved In Last Election Will Spend Their Lives In Jãîl—Utomi

Breaking news: So Many INEC Officials And Those Who Were Involved In Last Election Will Spend Their Lives In Jãîl—Utomi

In a recent interview with Daily Independent on Saturday, February 21, 2026, Professor Pat Utomi, former presidential candidate and renowned political economist, issued a stern warning regarding electoral malpractice in Nigeria, emphasizing that those found guilty of wrongdoing could face severe legal consequences.

Utomi stressed that while he does not personally know the abilities or integrity of election officials, anyone involved in electoral fraud or malpractice should be prepared to face justice if wrongdoing is proven. According to him, accountability is essential to preserving the integrity of the democratic process in the country.

“I don’t know them. I don’t know what they can or cannot do. But I can assure them of one thing. Many of them, and those who were involved in the last election, will spend most of the rest of their lives in jail, perhaps in Papua New Guinea or somewhere. INEC officials will be among those who will go to jail. I assure you of that,” Utomi said, highlighting the seriousness of electoral misconduct and the consequences of undermining democracy.

The political economist noted that punishment for electoral crimes must be substantial enough to deter future misconduct. He emphasized that a strong justice system is vital to safeguarding democratic processes and ensuring that elections are free, fair, and credible.

Utomi drew comparisons with international justice systems, noting that many ideas once thought impossible, such as the establishment of global judicial institutions, eventually became reality through international agreements. He used this as an example to underline that holding electoral offenders accountable is not only feasible but necessary for strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework.

The former presidential candidate also stressed that election malpractice should not be tolerated in any form within the country’s political system. He warned that officials who engage in fraudulent activities, manipulate results, or compromise the credibility of elections should be investigated and prosecuted if evidence of wrongdoing emerges.

“Election officials who break the law must face punishment according to legal procedures. Justice must apply to everyone involved in electoral management. If serious violations are proven, the punishment should be strict enough to serve as a warning for future elections,” Utomi said.

He further emphasized that strong legal consequences for electoral crimes are critical in deterring misconduct, protecting the rights of voters, and maintaining public confidence in democratic institutions. According to him, ensuring accountability for past and present electoral offenses will help build a culture of transparency and responsibility in Nigeria’s political landscape.