**2027 Presidential Polls: Money and Influence Will Shape the Outcome, Says Afenifere** Ahead of the 2027 presidential election in Nigeria, a leading pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has warned that the outcome of the polls will largely depend on the amount of money and influence at play. In a recent statement, Dr. Akin Fapounda, Director of Research at Afenifere, opined that Nigeria's electoral process has been heavily influenced by the financial might of contestants and their supporters. He stated that this trend is likely to continue in the 2027 presidential election, with the candidate who has the most resources and support network at his disposal likely to emerge victorious. This statement echoes concerns raised by many Nigerians about the influence of money in politics. In a country where elections can be influenced by the power of the purse, the outcome of the polls can be predetermined by those with the means to sway voters and manipulate the electoral process. Fapounda's comments are particularly relevant in the context of Nigeria, where the 2023 presidential election was marred by allegations of vote-buying and other forms of electoral manipulation. Many Nigerians believe that the influence of money and power in the electoral process undermines the integrity of democracy and the will of the people. Afenifere's warning highlights the need for Nigerians to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring that the electoral process is free and fair. It also underscores the importance of electoral reform and the need to strengthen institutions that can safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 presidential election, Fapounda's statement is a timely reminder that the outcome of the polls will depend on the actions of all stakeholders, including voters, politicians, and the electoral authorities. It is a call to action for Nigerians to demand a fair and transparent electoral process and to hold those in power accountable for upholding the principles of democracy.