2027: Christian group cautions politicians against ethnic, religious campaigns

A non-denominational pressure group, Christian Conscience, has called on Nigerian politicians to prioritize issue-based campaigns for the upcoming 2027 general elections. The group specifically cautioned against leveraging ethnic and religious sentiments, urging a focus on national development.

“

Politicians should campaign with issues, not insults. Nigerians deserve to know what candidates intend to do about jobs, security, education, healthcare, infrastructure and the economy. Campaigns should be about presenting credible ideas and demonstrating the competence to deliver them.

In a statement released after its monthly meeting in Lagos, Christian Conscience stressed that campaigns should tackle critical issues affecting the nation, such as jobs, security, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The group stated that Nigerians deserve to understand candidates' plans for improving these sectors and to see credible ideas backed by a demonstrated capacity to deliver.

“

Nigeria belongs to all of us. Political leaders must resist the temptation to weaponise ethnicity or religion. Statements capable of inflaming ethnic, religious or regional tensions have no place in a healthy democracy.

The statement, jointly signed by National Chairman Yetunde Akinluyi and National Secretary-General Kolawole Verrals, also appealed to political actors to reject violence, intimidation, and the use of political thugs. It urged them to compete vigorously while maintaining mutual respect and national unity, warning against the weaponization of ethnicity or religion. The group called on Nigerians to critically assess candidates' track records, policies, competence, and character.

“

Political disagreement should never become personal hatred. Today’s opponent may become tomorrow’s partner in national development. Politicians must, therefore, compete vigorously while preserving mutual respect and the unity of the country.