Former IGP Adamu warns of voter card buying in Nasarawa ahead of 2027 polls

Former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar Adamu has issued a warning regarding alleged irregularities in the voter registration process in Nasarawa State. Speaking in Doma Local Government Area, the former police chief alleged that certain political actors are purchasing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from women with the specific intent of preventing them from casting their votes in the 2027 governorship election.

Adamu made these remarks while addressing a rally organised by the Alago Support Group, which formally endorsed him as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship race. During his address, he urged residents to protect their voting rights by refusing to surrender their cards for money. He advised any individual whose card had been collected to retrieve it immediately and encouraged all eligible voters to ensure they are in possession of their PVCs on election day. According to Adamu, those engaging in this practice are individuals who lack a significant following and are attempting to suppress voter turnout through financial inducements.

Background

The endorsement of Adamu by the Alago nation was announced at a gathering convened by the Alago Support Group. Danjuma Joseph, the convener of the event, explained that the group decided to intervene in the political landscape because they felt the Alago community could not remain passive while the future of Nasarawa State was being determined. Joseph stated that after a thorough assessment of potential candidates, the group identified Adamu as a figure of proven integrity and patriotism. He noted that Adamu shares deep historical and blood ties with the Alago people, having served Nigeria at the highest levels of the police force.

Adamu expressed gratitude for the support, describing the endorsement as a significant boost to his confidence in his political ambitions. He attributed his political progress to divine intervention and the commitment of his supporters. The former IGP stated that his decision to contest the election is driven by a desire to improve the welfare of ordinary residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as mothers, children, and youths, whom he believes have been neglected under the current administration.

Why it matters

The allegations of PVC buying raise serious concerns about the integrity of the upcoming 2027 election in Nasarawa State. If political actors are successfully purchasing voter cards, it could lead to a significant reduction in voter turnout, particularly among women, thereby skewing the democratic process. Adamu pledged that if elected governor, he would prioritise three key areas: quality education, quality healthcare, and security. He promised to create safer communities where residents can sleep without fear, directly addressing the security challenges that have plagued the region. His campaign focuses on uplifting the less privileged and ensuring that government priorities align with the basic needs of the common people, rather than focusing on issues that do not directly affect their daily lives.

The former IGP’s intervention highlights the competitive nature of the 2027 race and the efforts by various political stakeholders to mobilise support. By linking his candidacy to the protection of voting rights, Adamu is positioning himself as a defender of democratic processes against perceived manipulation. The endorsement by the Alago nation, described as a prominent tribe in the area, adds weight to his campaign, with supporters asserting that they will ensure he does not face hardship on election day.

What happens next

The 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State is still in the future, and no specific dates for the next steps in the election process were provided in the source material. However, Adamu has called on voters to remain vigilant and ensure their PVCs are secure. The political landscape will likely see further mobilisation efforts from both supporters and opponents as the election approaches. The allegations of card buying may prompt further scrutiny from electoral bodies and civil society groups monitoring the pre-election environment.