A non-denominational pressure group, Christian Conscience, has called on political parties and candidates to focus on issues that affect Nigerians as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
The group also warned politicians against exploiting ethnic and religious sentiments, saying election campaigns should not promote violence, intimidation or the deployment of political thugs.
The Punch reported the position was contained in a statement signed by the group’s National Chairman, Yetunde Akinluyi, and National Secretary-General, Kolawole Verrals.
The statement was issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Tunji Oguntuase, following the group’s monthly meeting in Lagos on Tuesday.
According to the group, the Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable shows that campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections began on August 19, 2026, while campaigns for governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled to commence on September 9, 2026.
Christian Conscience urged politicians to explain clearly how they intend to address pressing challenges in areas including employment, education, healthcare, security, infrastructure and the economy.
“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. Campaigns should be about presenting credible ideas and demonstrating the competence to deliver them,’ the group said.
The organisation further appealed to political actors to steer clear of ethnic and religious mobilisation, stressing that political competition should not undermine national cohesion.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Political leaders must resist the temptation to weaponise ethnicity or religion. Statements capable of inflaming ethnic, religious or regional tensions have no place in a healthy democracy.
“Political disagreement should never become personal hatred. Today’s opponent may become tomorrow’s partner in national development. Politicians must, therefore, compete vigorously while preserving mutual respect and the unity of the country,” the statement partly read.
The group also urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to reject violence and intimidation, particularly attacks against political opponents and threats directed at voters.
It called on the electorate to assess candidates objectively by examining their records, policies, competence and character rather than allowing ethnic or religious considerations to determine their choices.
Christian Conscience said peaceful participation remained essential to credible elections and the long-term stability of the country.
The call comes amid a separate warning by the National Broadcasting Commission to broadcasters, online publishers, bloggers and other participants in Nigeria’s information ecosystem against spreading misinformation, hate speech and inflammatory content capable of threatening peaceful elections.
The commission also urged licensed broadcasters to ensure fair and balanced coverage of political campaigns, while verifying political claims, allegations, statistics and other assertions before presenting them as facts.
