Calls to defend your votes have sparked widespread attention after Buba Galadima urged Nigerians to protect their ballots during the 2027 elections. Speaking in Abuja, Galadima encouraged citizens to “defend your votes” while also stating that opposition figures Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso may leave the African Democratic Congress for a new political platform.

The defend your votes statement was made during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement in Abuja, part of ongoing political engagements ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The meeting forms part of broader efforts by opposition groups to explore alliances and possible realignments in Nigeria’s political landscape. In recent months, discussions around coalition-building have intensified as political actors assess viable platforms for upcoming elections.

The defend your votes call reflects increasing emphasis by political stakeholders on electoral participation and vote protection, a recurring theme in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Addressing participants at the event, Galadima urged supporters to remain committed to electoral processes, stating that political change would require determination and participation.

He said, “Salvaging a country… needs sacrifice, strategy and the use of the internet.” Expanding on the defend your votes message, he added: “Be prepared to be in the trenches to safeguard our freedom… it is not going to be an easy task.”

He further stated: “Go to the polling centres with your bottles and jerry cans of kerosene… Either they do what is right, or we all die there.”

On political developments, Galadima indicated that Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso could leave the African Democratic Congress, suggesting that a new political platform may be unveiled.

“As from Monday… our leaders declare on which platform they will run,” he said, adding that political opposition may face coordinated criticism from commentators and social media actors.

The defend your votes statement highlights the heightened political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly among opposition figures seeking alignment.

The remarks also underscore ongoing discussions around electoral integrity and voter participation, which remain central to Nigeria’s democratic framework.

Additionally, the indication of possible defections by major political figures suggests continued fluidity in party alignments, which could influence party strategies and voter mobilisation efforts.