The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has called on politicians in Oyo State to prioritize issue-based campaigns and refrain from personal attacks as the 2027 general elections approach. In a statement released by the council's Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Olomide, CCII President-General Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole emphasized the need for politicians to focus on policies and programs that address the challenges facing Oyo State and Nigeria.
Ajewole stated that political campaigns should provide an opportunity for candidates to explain their vision and plans to the electorate, rather than becoming platforms for personal attacks and name-calling. He urged politicians to make their campaigns issue-based, stop attacking one another, and focus on telling the people what they intend to do for them if given the opportunity to serve. This approach, he believes, will enable the electorate to make informed decisions.
The CCII President-General encouraged candidates seeking elective positions to clearly explain their programs and policies to the electorate, particularly how they intend to address the challenges facing the state and the country. He emphasized that the people want to know what candidates will do differently and what their plans are for Oyo State, including improving education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, employment, and the economy.
Ajewole also stressed that political differences should not be allowed to destroy the bonds of unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of Oyo State. He warned that inflammatory rhetoric could create unnecessary tension and distract the electorate from issues that directly affect their lives. Candidates and their supporters should exercise restraint in their public statements to maintain a peaceful and respectful campaign environment.
The CCII urged politicians to conduct their campaigns with maturity, decorum, and respect for one another. The council emphasized that the campaign should be about ideas, programs, policies, and what each candidate can offer the people. Politicians should caution their handlers, especially their media aides, social media handlers, and bloggers, against attacking perceived political opponents.
According to the CCII, political differences are normal, particularly as the 2027 elections approach, but such differences should not degenerate into personal attacks, insults, character assassination, or the spread of inflammatory content. The council's statement reflects the concerns of many Nigerians who are seeking a more civil and issue-based approach to politics.
The CCII's call for issue-based campaigns and an end to personal attacks is a timely reminder for politicians in Oyo State as they prepare for the 2027 general elections. By focusing on policies and programs, candidates can engage in a more meaningful and respectful dialogue with the electorate, ultimately leading to a more informed and peaceful electoral process.
Key points
- CCII urges Oyo politicians to prioritize issue-based campaigns ahead of 2027 elections.
- Politicians should focus on policies and programs that address the challenges facing Oyo State and Nigeria.
- The council emphasizes the need for a peaceful and respectful campaign environment.
