Human Rights Lawyer Defends 'Rig And Die' Slogan, Questions APC's Outrage

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has defended the 'rig and die' slogan ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting it is directed at those contemplating electoral manipulation and the use of thugs to disrupt the democratic process. Effiong argued that Nigerians have the right to defend their votes and electoral rights. He made these statements on his Facebook and X accounts on Monday, amid growing controversy over warnings by opposition politicians that attempts to rig the 2027 elections would attract serious consequences.

The 'rig and die' slogan has attracted criticism from supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who interpret it as an endorsement of violence and jungle justice. However, Effiong clarified that the expression does not mean 'vote me or die.' He added that if anyone decides to engage in thuggery and disrupt the electoral process, whatever happens to them is their choice. This stance has revived public discussions about similar warnings made by former President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the 2019 general elections.

Former President Buhari had warned that ballot-box snatchers and those deploying thugs to disrupt elections would be doing so at the risk of their lives. This statement generated controversy but received public backing from prominent APC figures, including Bola Tinubu and Festus Keyamo. The resurfacing of those positions has raised questions about the apparent difference in reactions to threatening electoral rhetoric, depending on whether it comes from the ruling party or the opposition.

Opposition figures, including former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege and NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi, have also warned against attempts to manipulate the 2027 elections. Effiong questioned the commitment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to tackling political violence, particularly before election days. He asked how many people or political parties have been sanctioned for engaging in political violence during the 2023 general elections.

Effiong cited the disruption of political rallies and the violent attack on activist Omoyele Sowore, saying he had not seen any meaningful action by INEC against those responsible. He warned those contemplating electoral manipulation to reconsider their actions, stating that Nigerians have the right to defend their votes and electoral rights. The debate over the slogan has brought renewed attention to the responsibility of political parties, electoral authorities, and security agencies to ensure the 2027 elections are conducted without intimidation, violence, or manipulation.

The controversy has sparked discussions about the role of INEC in preventing electoral violence and ensuring free and fair elections. Effiong's comments have also highlighted the need for a consistent approach to addressing electoral rhetoric, regardless of the party or individual making the statements. As the 2027 elections approach, the issue of electoral violence and manipulation remains a significant concern for stakeholders.

The 'rig and die' slogan has become a focal point in the discussion on electoral violence and the measures that can be taken to prevent it. Key stakeholders, including political parties, INEC, and security agencies, must work together to ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted in a peaceful and fair manner. Effiong's defense of the slogan has underscored the importance of protecting the democratic process and the rights of Nigerian citizens to participate in free and fair elections.

Key points

• Inibehe Effiong defends the 'rig and die' slogan, saying it targets electoral manipulators.