The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has called on politicians in Oyo State to prioritize issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections. CCII President-General, Ajeniyi Ajewole, emphasized the need for candidates to focus on policies, programs, and ideas that address the challenges facing Oyo State and Nigeria. This approach would enable voters to assess candidates' proposals and priorities.
Ajewole made the call in a statement issued by the council's Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide. The statement is consistent with the council's recent public statements urging restraint and a focus on substantive issues in the 2027 elections. Ajewole stressed that campaigns should provide candidates with an opportunity to explain their vision and plans to the electorate, rather than focusing on personal attacks and name-calling.
The CCII President-General urged candidates to clearly explain their programs and policies, particularly on addressing challenges confronting the state and country. He emphasized that an issue-based campaign would allow voters to make informed decisions based on candidates' records, programs, and vision. This approach would promote healthy political discourse and help preserve peace and unity in Oyo State.
Ajewole warned that inflammatory rhetoric could create unnecessary tension and distract the electorate from issues that directly affect their lives. He appealed to politicians to conduct their campaigns with maturity, decorum, and respect for one another. Candidates and their supporters should exercise restraint in their public statements to avoid creating unnecessary tension.
The CCII President-General urged politicians to caution their handlers, especially media aides, social media handlers, and bloggers, against attacking perceived political opponents. He emphasized that political differences should not degenerate into personal attacks, insults, character assassination, or the spread of inflammatory content. Instead, politicians should focus on issues, policies, and constructive engagement.
Ajewole called on political parties, campaign organizations, and supporters to place the interests of Oyo State and Nigeria above personal and partisan considerations. They should promote peaceful and issue-based political engagement throughout the electioneering period. By doing so, voters would have the opportunity to make informed decisions based on candidates' proposals and priorities.
The CCII's call for issue-based campaigns is a timely reminder for politicians in Oyo State as the 2027 general elections approach. By focusing on policies, programs, and ideas, candidates can engage in meaningful discussions with the electorate and promote a peaceful and constructive political atmosphere. This approach would ultimately benefit the people of Oyo State and Nigeria.
Key points
- CCII urges Oyo politicians to prioritize issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The council emphasizes the need for candidates to focus on policies, programs, and ideas addressing state and national challenges.
- An issue-based campaign would enable voters to make informed decisions based on candidates' records, programs, and vision.
