Tuesday, August 19, 2025 | by DAILY MENTOR NEWS
Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has expressed serious doubts about the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct free and fair elections under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Galadima accused the current government of prioritizing politicking over governance just two years into its tenure, which he claims undermines the credibility of upcoming elections.
“When INEC was INEC, they used to warn politicians to avoid early politicking. Could it be worse? The politicking happening now, just two years into this administration, is unprecedented,” Galadima stated.
He argued that INEC lacks the "muscle and the guts" to call politicians to order because some government officials themselves have already started politicking prematurely. “If they can’t stop politicians from jumping the gun or causing crises, how can they be expected to conduct free and fair elections?” he queried.
Galadima suggested that the current situation forces some political actors to "keep quiet" but warned that when they decide to act, “the world will know that we are here.”
The NNPP chieftain’s criticism adds to growing political tension ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, where questions about electoral integrity have taken center stage.
Galadima’s comments also reflect broader concerns about governance and the political climate under President Tinubu, as opposition and civil society groups continue to call for electoral reforms and enhanced transparency.