NNPP Sounds Alarm Over Danger of Fake Opinion Polls in 2023 Elections

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has raised concerns about the potential for violence in the 2023 general elections as a result of fake opinion polls. The conduct of opinion polls is a normal aspect of political activities ahead of elections in Nigeria, particularly during presidential elections. However, NNPP warns that conducting fake polls could have disastrous consequences.

According to Major Agbo, the national publicity secretary of NNPP, the purpose of opinion polls is to provide political parties with insight into their performance and guide their election strategies. However, if done incorrectly, it could lead to violence. The statement highlights that credible opinion polls must meet specific criteria, such as sampling different populations, using a sufficient sample size, and having professional conductors, among others.

The NNPP warns that fake opinion polls are currently being circulated with misleading results, designed to promote certain candidates and deceive the public. The party fears that this could negatively impact the credibility of the elections and security of the country. The NNPP also calls out media houses for falling for these fake polls, but stresses that they cannot be blamed as they report what they believe to be true.

The NNPP believes that these fake polls may be part of a larger scheme to deceive the public, discourage supporters of other candidates, and potentially set the stage for crisis if the falsely-promoted candidate loses. The party recalls the violent aftermath of the 2011 elections, which were fueled by fake opinion polls, and warns that a repeat of this must be avoided at all costs. NNPP calls on fake pollsters to stop their dangerous activities, security agencies to be vigilant, and for all to work together to prevent political upheavals, anarchy, and crisis in the country.