AS 2027 POLLS APPROACH, YOUTH GROUPS, SECURITY AGENCIES URGE NIGERIANS TO REJECT ELECTION VIOLENCE
By Faith Adikeh
As the 2027 General Elections draw closer, civil society groups, youth leaders, and security agencies across Nigeria are intensifying campaigns for a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Stakeholders say rising tensions in some parts of the country, including recent security operations in Kogi State and other identified flashpoints, make it increasingly important for citizens to embrace dialogue and peaceful participation rather than violence.
Community leaders have particularly warned youths against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of political thuggery, vote-buying, and electoral violence.
A youth leader in the North-Central region said, “Your PVC is more powerful than any stone or gun. Politicians will shake hands after the election, but you will remain with the scars.”
The Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have also assured Nigerians of adequate security and measures to protect the electoral process, while urging voters to promptly report any attempt to disrupt elections.
Analysts say a peaceful 2027 election will not only strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions but could also boost investor confidence, promote national unity, and enhance the country’s development.
Nigerians are therefore being urged to vote peacefully, reject electoral inducements, and hold elected leaders accountable through their ballots rather than violence.
With every election cycle often marked by promises, tension, violence, and regret, stakeholders insist that 2027 must be different.
The message is clear: Nigerians must choose peace, participate responsibly, and protect the democratic process.
