As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the Northern Elders have issued a stern warning against any attempts to rig the polls in the northern region. While the exact phrase “Whoever comes to the North to rig elections in 2027, Northerner or not, will return to his family in body bags” has not been directly attributed to the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), strong warnings against electoral manipulation have been made by prominent northern voices, including former NEF spokesperson Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed.
Strong Warnings from Northern Leaders
Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former special adviser to President Bola Tinubu and once a spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum, has repeatedly cautioned that the North will not tolerate any rigging or marginalisation in the upcoming elections. Speaking in multiple interviews and public statements, Baba-Ahmed stressed:
“If they plan to rig the election, they should be careful. It won’t be good for Nigeria. The North is watching. Elders, masses, and interest groups will soon say ‘enough is enough.’ The injustice and sidelining must stop.”
He further warned that the North’s political stance will decisively influence the 2027 election outcome, emphasizing that no candidate can win the presidency without northern support. Baba-Ahmed also hinted at serious consequences if the region continues to be marginalised or if elections are manipulated.
Context of Rising Tensions
These warnings come amid growing political tensions and concerns over fairness in the electoral process. The North, which holds significant electoral weight, has expressed frustration over perceived marginalisation and insecurity that have affected the region in recent years.
Baba-Ahmed’s comments echo broader sentiments within northern political and civil society groups who are mobilizing to ensure that the region’s voice is respected in the forthcoming elections. He noted that the North will soon announce its political direction, signaling a united front against any form of electoral injustice.
No Direct Quote from Northern Elders Forum
While media reports and political analysts have circulated the strong warning phrase about “body bags,” official statements from the Northern Elders Forum have not explicitly used this wording. Instead, the message conveyed by leaders like Baba-Ahmed is a clear caution against electoral rigging and a call for justice and fairness.
Implications for Nigeria’s 2027 Elections
The North’s position is crucial given its large voting population and political influence. The region’s determination to reject rigged elections could lead to significant political shifts or unrest if not properly addressed.
Political observers warn that the 2027 elections will be a defining moment for Nigeria’s unity and democratic stability. Ensuring free, fair, and credible elections, particularly in the North, will be essential to avoid conflict and maintain national cohesion.
