As the 2027 general elections approach, Nigeria has the opportunity to strengthen its democratic institutions. The commencement of intense electioneering activities offers a chance for politicians to engage in issue-based campaigns. However, past experiences have been marred by personality attacks, divisive rhetoric, and violence. To move forward, politicians must prioritize a contest of ideas, policies, and programs that address pressing issues like unemployment, inflation, and insecurity.
Recent incidents of violence against political parties' offices in Rivers State have been widely condemned. The reports of assaults are a worrying trend that could undermine the democratic process. Law enforcement agencies have been urged to take action against those responsible and ensure that such incidents do not recur. The police and other security operatives must protect persons and property without partisan bias, allowing rival organizations to canvass freely.
The 2023 elections in Rivers State were marked by restrictions on opposition parties' activities. The state government introduced an Executive Order that prohibited the use of public schools for campaigns without approval and demanded a non-refundable N5 million caution fee. Opposition figures faced obstructions or attacks, and a presidential candidate was effectively prevented from campaigning in the state. Such conduct is unacceptable in a constitutional democracy and should not be repeated.
The practice of denying political opponents access to public facilities or inhibiting them from erecting billboards and posters is undemocratic and should be discouraged. Democracy entails free and unhindered participation, and public assets belong to all citizens, not just the ruling party. This intolerance is not unique to Rivers State, with similar incidents reported in Lagos and the North. Posters and banners of President Bola Tinubu have been destroyed, and campaign vehicles vandalized.
The nation cannot continue on this trajectory of violence and expect progress. Nigeria deserves elections that conform to global standards, where outcomes reflect the genuine will of the electorate and inspire confidence. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders must ensure that matters are conducted properly and transparently. Voters must be allowed to cast their ballots without intimidation, inducement, or coercion.
Ominous signs of orchestrated violence have emerged, with some political actors making inflammatory pronouncements. A senator allegedly enjoined his supporters to kill Accord Party opponents in Osun State, while an area council chairman in Abuja advised those unwilling to support the ruling party to relocate. Such utterances heat up the polity and must be denounced. INEC, working with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), should arrest and prosecute offenders.
To ensure a violence-free election, INEC must enforce campaign regulations contained in the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and its guidelines. Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) must complement the efforts of the electoral umpire and security agencies in maintaining sanity during the electioneering period. By demonstrating firmness, impartiality, and consistency in applying sanctions, Nigerians would be persuaded that INEC is serious and genuinely independent.
Key points
- Politicians must prioritize issue-based campaigns over personality attacks and divisive rhetoric.
- Law enforcement agencies must take action against those responsible for violence against political parties' offices.
- INEC must enforce campaign regulations to ensure a violence-free election.
