Popular businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose has stirred conversations online after making serious allegations about Nigeria’s electoral system and the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a video currently circulating on social media, Fayose claimed that elections can no longer bring meaningful political change in Nigeria, alleging that uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are being used to influence election outcomes.
His remarks have since generated widespread reactions, with Nigerians divided over the claims.
Fayose Questions Electoral Integrity
Speaking in the viral video, Fayose expressed skepticism about the ability of opposition parties to win elections under the current system.
According to him, the issue extends beyond political parties and reflects what he believes are deeper flaws within the electoral process.
“No party can win an election in Nigeria. I repeat, no party, no election can change this government,” he said.
Referring to voter registration figures in Ekiti State, Fayose alleged that the number of uncollected voter cards was significantly higher than official figures being reported.
“Look at what they’ve done in Ekiti. They said people that didn’t collect their voter cards are only 30,000. They were more than that; they are over 400,000,” he claimed.
Allegations Over Uncollected Voter Cards
Fayose further alleged that unclaimed voter cards were being distributed to non-indigenes and used during elections.
According to him, some individuals were allegedly being paid to participate in the voting process using those cards.
“They are now sharing the cards to non-indigenes and giving them ₦20,000 to go and vote. Cards that are supposed to be in the custody of INEC,” he alleged.
He also claimed that areas where such cards were allegedly being deployed had experienced unusual increases in voting strength, while traditional voting strongholds had recorded declines.
While making the allegations, Fayose linked the situation to broader concerns about governance and insecurity in the country.
“So you can see why Boko Haram, banditry and kidnapping keep growing in our country because good people that are meant to change our fortune are being rigged out.”
Mixed Reactions Online
The comments have sparked intense discussions across social media platforms.
While some Nigerians expressed concern and called for greater transparency in the electoral process, others questioned the basis of the allegations and urged Fayose to provide verifiable evidence to support his claims.
Several users also emphasized the importance of allowing relevant authorities to investigate any allegations of electoral malpractice through appropriate legal and institutional channels.
INEC Yet to Respond
As of the time of filing this report, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not publicly responded to the allegations made by Fayose.
The claims remain unverified, and no official evidence has been presented to substantiate the allegations.
The development has nevertheless reignited conversations about election credibility, voter participation, and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of future elections.
