Group urges politicians to make 2027 campaigns issue-based

A non-denominational pressure group, Christian Conscience, has urged political parties and candidates to make their 2027 election campaigns issue-based and focused on ideas, competence, accountability and service to Nigerians.

The group made the call as the Independent National Electoral Commission’s revised timetable for campaigns ahead of the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections takes effect on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

In a statement issued after its monthly meeting in Lagos, the group urged politicians to focus on critical issues affecting Nigerians rather than personal attacks, inflammatory rhetoric and divisive politics.

The statement was jointly signed by the group’s National Chairman, Yetunde Akinluyi, and National Secretary-General, Rev. Kolawole Verrals, and released by its National Publicity Secretary, Tunji Oguntuase.

Christian Conscience said campaigns should clearly outline how candidates and political parties intend to tackle unemployment, insecurity, education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic growth.

“Politicians should campaign with issues, not insults. Nigerians deserve to know what candidates intend to do about jobs, security, education, healthcare, infrastructure and the economy,” the group said.

It also warned politicians against exploiting ethnic and religious sentiments for electoral advantage, urging them to avoid statements capable of inflaming ethnic, religious or regional tensions.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Political leaders must resist the temptation to weaponise ethnicity or religion,” it said.

The group further called on candidates and their supporters to maintain civility and respect for political opponents throughout the electioneering period.

According to the organisation, political disagreements should not degenerate into personal hatred, noting that political opponents could become partners in national development.

Christian Conscience also urged political parties to reject violence, intimidation and the use of political thugs during the election period.

It called on politicians and their supporters to refrain from mobilising groups to attack opponents or threaten voters, stressing that peaceful participation was essential to credible elections and national stability.

The group urged Nigerians to assess candidates based on their track records, policies, competence and character, rather than emotions, identity or intimidation.

It expressed hope that the 2027 campaign would provide an opportunity for citizens to engage political leaders on solutions to the country’s challenges and make informed electoral choices.