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 country faces significant cost-of-living pressures.
NAGA-Diaspora's Global Coordinator, Tope Adesipo, and Secretary, Ajede Oluwaseun, noted that the removal of petrol subsidy and the devaluation of the naira have contributed significantly to the current economic challenges. The group pointed out that President Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi had, at various times, supported positions associated with the two economic measures, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had proposed a different approach.
The group argued that Nigerians should seek clarity from presidential candidates on how their economic policies would address inflation, household costs, production, and fiscal stability. NAGA-Diaspora also cautioned against changes in campaign positions without clear explanations, urging voters to examine candidates' records and the evolution of their policies. The group emphasized that a change of language is not a change of record.
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 organisations, professional bodies, and registered voters to demand clear answers from candidates on their past positions and proposed alternatives.
The organisation emphasized that the 2027 election should be centred on policy, accountability, and workable economic programmes rather than personalities or campaign rhetoric. NAGA-Diaspora urged voters to assess candidates based on their records and positions over time, particularly on policies that have significant implications for the economy and living standards.
NAGA-Diaspora said it remained committed to promoting good governance, accountability, and purposeful leadership, while calling for an issues-based electoral campaign ahead of the 2027 polls. The group aims to encourage voters to make informed decisions by scrutinising candidates' policies and records.
The 2027 general elections are expected to be a critical moment for Nigeria's democratic development. With NAGA-Diaspora's call for a policy-focused campaign, voters will have the opportunity to engage with candidates on their economic plans and hold them accountable for their positions.
Key points
- NAGA-Diaspora urges voters to examine presidential candidates' policy positions ahead of 2027 elections
- The group emphasizes the need for clarity on economic policies, particularly petrol subsidy and foreign exchange
- The 2027 election should be centred on policy, accountability, and workable economic programmes rather than personalities or campaign rhetoric
