Former Nigerian Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has urged citizens to protect the integrity of their votes ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that selling votes undermines democracy.
The retired general gave the advice during a Ramadan Tafsir held at his residence in Minna, the capital of Niger State.
Vote Selling Is “Haram,” Abdulsalami Says
Abdulsalami stressed that Nigerians must view their votes as a powerful tool for electing credible leaders and cautioned against exchanging them for money or other inducements.
“Selling of votes is unreligious; your vote is very important, and it is Haram to sell your votes,” he said.
According to him, the practice weakens the democratic process and prevents the emergence of leaders capable of addressing the country’s challenges.
Call for Peaceful Political Competition
The former military leader also appealed to politicians to conduct themselves responsibly during elections.
He urged political actors to avoid bitterness, rancour, character assassination, and mudslinging, emphasizing that elections should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.
Instead, he described elections as a healthy competition in which there will always be winners and losers.
Concerns Over Nigeria’s Economic Hardship
Speaking on the state of the nation, Abdulsalami acknowledged the economic hardship affecting many Nigerians.
“The economy is biting hard, and we are in a difficult situation,” he noted.
However, he commended wealthy individuals who have been supporting the less privileged and encouraged them to continue assisting those in need.
Ramadan Lessons Beyond the Holy Month
Abdulsalami further urged Muslims to use the ongoing Ramadan for prayers, reflection, and acts of charity.
He encouraged believers to continue practising the moral and spiritual lessons learned during the holy month even after Ramadan ends.
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