The Nigerian Advocacy for Good Governance Alliance (NAGA-Diaspora) has called on Nigerians to focus on the policy positions, records, and consistency of presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a statement, the group emphasized the need for voters to carefully examine candidates' positions on economic policies, particularly those relating to petrol subsidy and foreign exchange. This call comes as the removal of petrol subsidy and the devaluation of the naira have significantly contributed to the current cost-of-living pressures facing Nigerians.
NAGA-Diaspora's Global Coordinator, Tope Adesipo, and Secretary, Ajede Oluwaseun, highlighted that President Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi had, at various times, supported positions associated with the two economic measures. In contrast, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had proposed a different approach, including a targeted subsidy as part of measures to reduce pressure on households. The group argued that voters should seek clarity from presidential candidates on how their economic policies would address inflation, household costs, production, and fiscal stability.
The group cautioned against changes in campaign positions without clear explanations, urging voters to examine candidates' records and the evolution of their policies. NAGA-Diaspora emphasized that a change of language is not a change of record, and voters should determine whether proposed policy shifts represent substantive alternatives or changes in campaign messaging. This advice is aimed at ensuring that the 2027 election is centered on policy, accountability, and workable economic programs rather than personalities or campaign rhetoric.
NAGA-Diaspora posed three key questions for voters to consider: who supported the policies associated with the current economic pressures; who had a documented alternative, including on subsidy; and whether proposed alternatives would remain in place after the election. The group called on civil society groups, youth organizations, professional bodies, and registered voters to demand clear answers from candidates on their past positions and proposed alternatives.
The organization remains committed to promoting good governance, accountability, and purposeful leadership, while calling for an issues-based electoral campaign ahead of the 2027 polls. By urging voters to assess candidates based on their records and positions over time, NAGA-Diaspora aims to promote informed decision-making in the electoral process. This approach is expected to help voters make more informed choices about the next generation of leaders.
The current economic pressures facing Nigerians have made it essential for voters to scrutinize presidential candidates' policies. The removal of petrol subsidy and the devaluation of the naira have had a significant impact on the cost of living, and voters need to understand how candidates plan to address these issues. By examining candidates' policy positions and records, voters can hold them accountable for their proposed solutions.
As the 2027 general elections approach, NAGA-Diaspora's call for an issues-based electoral campaign is timely. By focusing on policy, accountability, and workable economic programs, voters can ensure that the next generation of leaders is equipped to address the country's challenges. The group's efforts aim to promote a more informed and engaged electorate, ultimately contributing to good governance and purposeful leadership in Nigeria.
Key points
- NAGA-Diaspora urges Nigerians to examine presidential candidates' policy positions, records, and consistency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The group emphasizes the need for voters to assess candidates based on their records and positions over time, particularly on policies with significant implications for the economy and living standards.
- NAGA-Diaspora calls for an issues-based electoral campaign, focusing on policy, accountability, and workable economic programs rather than personalities or campaign rhetoric.
