As the 2027 general elections approach, Nigerians are being encouraged to take a closer look at the campaign promises made by various candidates. The Centre for Democracy and Development's 'Buharimeter' project, which monitored 222 promises made by the then President and the ruling party after the 2015 election, showed that a written, measurable record is essential for accountability.
Campaign messages for the 2027 elections already contain ambitious proposals covering major issues such as the economy, energy, jobs, agriculture, security, and infrastructure. For instance, one presidential campaign proposal promises to restore the petrol subsidy, while another proposes a production-led economy built around agriculture, manufacturing, and support for small businesses.
Voters should ask critical questions about the implementation, cost, and benefits of these proposals. They should also examine the evidence supporting claims made by candidates, particularly regarding employment, education, healthcare, and security. Employment figures, for example, should distinguish between temporary and sustainable jobs, while education and healthcare claims should be examined alongside budgets, staffing, access, and measurable outcomes.
The 2015 election provides a useful case study, with the Buharimeter reporting that only one of 222 tracked promises had been rated "achieved" after seven months, while 27 were classified as "ongoing" and 194 had not yet been rated. This exercise created a record against which progress could be assessed, highlighting the importance of tracking promises throughout a term of office.
Nigerians should also be cautious of empowerment programs that become popular during campaign periods, as they may lack transparent selection criteria or be designed primarily to influence political support. Citizens should ask questions about who funded the intervention, how beneficiaries were selected, and whether public funds were involved.
Fact-checking should be part of this process, with political claims tested regardless of which party or candidate makes them. Candidates and political parties should present clear proposals, realistic timelines, and credible cost estimates, while journalists should ask for documents, figures, and implementation details.
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, citizens should demand something more solid from candidates, including a truthful account of the country's problems, a feasible plan to address them, and a record that can be examined against evidence. An informed vote is not about rejecting politicians but ensuring that political promises remain commitments citizens can question, monitor, and hold leaders accountable for after election day.
Key points
- Nigerians are being urged to evaluate campaign promises based on evidence, practicality, and the candidate's record of public service.
- The Centre for Democracy and Development's 'Buharimeter' project tracked 222 promises made by the then President and the ruling party after the 2015 election.
- Citizens should demand clear proposals, realistic timelines, and credible cost estimates from candidates and political parties.
