“Let Us Stop Rigging Elections and Arming Thugs” — Senator Adams Oshiomhole Speaks Out

Former Edo State Governor and current Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, has issued a strong warning to political actors across Nigeria, urging them to end election rigging and cease the practice of arming thugs to manipulate democratic outcomes.

Speaking at a recent political forum, Senator Oshiomhole emphasized that peaceful and transparent elections are crucial for sustaining democracy and promoting national development. He expressed concern that the continued use of violence and intimidation in politics undermines public trust in electoral institutions and threatens the country’s democratic stability.

“It is high time we stopped rigging elections and arming thugs. Democracy thrives on transparency and fairness, not fear and intimidation,” Oshiomhole declared.

The Dangers of Election Rigging

Senator Oshiomhole argued that the manipulation of votes and coercion of voters not only compromises the integrity of elections but also destabilizes governance.

He warned that politicians who rely on thugs, coercion, or financial inducements to win elections risk creating long-term political instability and social unrest. According to him, the health of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the active participation of citizens in free and fair elections.

“Elections are not just about winning political power; they are about ensuring that the people’s will is respected,” Oshiomhole said. “We cannot continue to allow a few individuals to hijack the democratic process through force or intimidation.”

Call for Responsible Political Leadership

The former Edo governor called on all political parties and their leaders to embrace responsible leadership and ethical campaign practices. He stressed that a culture of impunity, where political thuggery is tolerated, poses serious risks to national cohesion.

“Leaders must lead by example. They should discourage violence and uphold the principles of democracy,” he noted. “Arming thugs for political gain is not only criminal; it is morally wrong and dangerous for the future of our nation.”

Senator Oshiomhole further urged security agencies to remain impartial and take decisive action against anyone attempting to subvert elections through violence or intimidation.

Lessons from Past Elections

Reflecting on past elections, Oshiomhole highlighted instances where political violence disrupted campaigns, led to loss of lives, and eroded public confidence in the electoral process. He called for institutional reforms to ensure that future elections are transparent, credible, and free from manipulation.

“We must learn from our past mistakes. The credibility of our electoral process is the foundation of national stability,” he stated.

He also encouraged civil society organizations, youth groups, and the media to play an active role in monitoring elections and educating citizens about their rights, emphasizing that an informed electorate is the best defense against election manipulation.

Oshiomhole’s Vision for Peaceful Elections

Senator Oshiomhole concluded by stressing that the future of Nigerian democracy depends on collective responsibility. He called on politicians, voters, and stakeholders to uphold the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

“Let us commit ourselves to peaceful elections. Let us reject thuggery, intimidation, and corruption. Only then can we build a Nigeria that truly belongs to the people,” he said.

The senator’s remarks have resonated widely, particularly among civil society advocates who have long campaigned against election-related violence and political manipulation in Nigeria