Allegations of government using mercenaries to intimidate opposition raise election boycott questions
Premium Times opinion piece alleges government is deploying former militants like Tompolo (who makes billions monthly from federal security contracts) and figures like Sunday Igboho (who leads Iru Ekun mercenaries) to intimidate opposition ahead of elections, claims Federal Government has temporary truce with Boko Haram, and cites Governor Alia's reported blocking of Peter Obi from Benue state last year. Author argues opposition should boycott elections if not free and fair, but only if united.
These allegations, if true, threaten Nigeria's democratic process by suggesting state resources are being used to undermine electoral competition through intimidation. The piece highlights specific incidents: Obi's reported blockade in Benue, threats against him in Edo by Okpebholo (who promised 2.5 million votes to Tinubu), and claims that mercenaries are being deployed nationwide - reminiscent of MC Oluomo's actions in 2023 Lagos elections where Igbo voters were chased from polling booths.
With elections approaching, Nigerians should verify these claims through independent sources, consider what electoral integrity means for their civic participation, and determine what actions they support to ensure credible polls - whether through observation, advocacy, or other democratic mechanisms.