The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) House of Representatives candidate for Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency, Mr Henry Ojogu, has vowed to resist any attempt to rig the 2027 general elections, warning politicians against voter intimidation, harassment and manipulation of election results.
Ojogu, a former Attorney-General of Cross River State, made the statement during an interview with journalists in Calabar on Wednesday, October 21, where he called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a credible, transparent and peaceful electoral process.
According to him, the era of intimidating voters and manipulating election results must give way to a democratic process where the wishes of the people are respected.
He maintained that political parties and candidates should concentrate on campaigning and convincing voters rather than threatening their opponents or attempting to force their way into power.
“The mandate in a democracy belongs to the people. If the people want you, they will vote for you; if they do not, they will vote you out,” Ojogu said.
The NDC candidate also called on INEC to provide a level playing field for all political parties, stressing that the electoral body must demonstrate impartiality and ensure that every eligible voter can freely exercise their constitutional right.
He urged residents of Ikom and Boki to take an active interest in the electoral process by coming out to vote, observing the counting of ballots and following the collation of results until they are officially announced.
Ojogu said protecting the people's mandate should not be left to political parties alone, adding that voters also have a responsibility to remain vigilant and participate lawfully throughout the process.
Explaining his decision to contest the Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency seat, the former Attorney-General said the hardship facing ordinary Nigerians motivated him to seek elective office.
“I got motivated to seek election to represent my people because I have been part of the pain; things must change for the better,” he said.
His comments come as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with questions surrounding credible elections, effective representation and the protection of voters' rights expected to remain important issues in Ikom, Boki and other parts of Cross River State.
For voters in the constituency, the challenge will be ensuring that political competition remains peaceful and that the final outcome reflects the choices freely made at the ballot box.
Ojogu's warning places the spotlight on the responsibility of INEC, security agencies, political parties and voters to help ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted without intimidation or electoral malpractice.
The statement was reported by Galaxy TV on October 21, 2026.
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