campaigns based on – Blueprint Newspapers Limited

Nigeria Forward, a socio-political group, has urged political parties and candidates contesting the 2027 general elections to focus on issues, policies and manifestos rather than attacks on character, hate speech and disinformation.

The group warned that divisive campaign rhetoric could undermine national unity and peaceful coexistence as political activities gain momentum ahead of the elections.

His co-convener, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, PhD, said this in a statement released on Tuesday in response to the commencement of public political campaigns by candidates and political parties.

Nigeria Forward expressed concern that some political actors are resorting to defamation, slander campaigns and other tactics that can turn the election campaign into a contest of personalities rather than ideas.

Campaigns should provide voters with clear information about candidates’ policies and proposed programs to enable them to make informed choices.

The group also condemned the alleged misuse of digital media platforms to spread false news, hate speech and disinformation for political purposes.

He urged politicians to exercise restraint and demonstrate responsibility in their public statements and campaign activities.

“Our politicians must take a cue from their contemporaries in advanced and developed democracies, where election campaigns are based on issues, manifestos, policies and programs intended to be implemented for the benefit of voters,” the statement reads.

The group recognized that the pursuit of political power is a legitimate part of democracy, but insisted that it should be conducted with decency, mutual respect and patriotism.

Politicians must recognize the potential consequences of their statements, particularly when such statements could exacerbate divisions among Nigerians.

Nigeria Forward added that responsible political conduct would help promote peaceful participation and strengthen citizens’ commitment to national unity and development.

The group also called on civil society organisations, corporate bodies and other well-meaning Nigerians to hold politicians accountable for their statements and actions ahead of the elections.

Stakeholders should carefully examine the conduct of political actors and demand accountability from those whose actions may threaten peaceful coexistence.

The group urged Nigerians to support an electoral process in which candidates are evaluated on their policies, programs and commitments to national development rather than on personal attacks against their opponents.