The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Jega Amupitan, has urged Nigerians to reject electoral violence, stressing that elections should never be treated as a do-or-die affair.

Amupitan made the appeal during a visit to the Emir of Zazzau, where he called on political leaders, traditional institutions and citizens to work together in promoting peaceful and credible elections ahead of the 2027 general polls.

He said democracy thrives when political competition is conducted within the boundaries of the law, adding that disagreements should be resolved through constitutional and judicial processes rather than intimidation or violence.

“Elections should not be treated as a do-or-die affair,” Amupitan said, urging political actors to place the nation’s stability above partisan interests.

The INEC chairman also highlighted the important role of traditional rulers in fostering peace at the grassroots, noting that community leaders remain influential in encouraging dialogue, tolerance and responsible civic participation.

Responding, the Emir of Zazzau reaffirmed his commitment to supporting peaceful coexistence and appealed to politicians and their supporters to conduct their campaigns with restraint and respect for the law.