Ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission and political stakeholders to ensure Nigerians are allowed to freely choose their leaders through a credible electoral process.
Onaiyekan made the call on Monday in Abuja while receiving the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development and the Council of the Wise, led by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
He urged INEC, political parties, candidates and the government to respect electoral rules and ensure that the election reflects the will of voters.
The Cardinal also called on security agencies to maintain professionalism during the elections, warning against actions that could heighten tension or turn the country into a conflict zone.
Onaiyekan said all political stakeholders must play their roles responsibly and adhere to the rules guiding the electoral process.
He expressed concern that Nigeria’s elections had not recorded sufficient improvement since the return to democratic rule in 1999. He, however, noted that INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, had promised to deliver free, fair and credible elections.
Onaiyekan also urged the electoral commission to operate independently and carry out its responsibilities without undue interference.
He said Nigerians should be allowed to exercise their right to decide who governs them, noting that elections provide citizens with an opportunity to make such decisions periodically.
The Cardinal acknowledged the efforts of the National Peace Committee in promoting peaceful elections, including its engagement with political actors and the signing of electoral commitments.
He, however, expressed concern that some political actors had failed to honour previous commitments, while maintaining hope that the 2027 elections would be better.
Speaking during the meeting, Ariwoola urged Onaiyekan to intensify his appeals to politicians to conduct themselves responsibly during the 2027 campaign.
The former Chief Justice called on political parties and candidates to avoid hate speech, inflammatory remarks and actions capable of provoking violence.
He also urged political parties to comply with their constitutions, codes of conduct and guidelines issued by INEC.
Ariwoola said candidates seeking public office should demonstrate responsible conduct and encourage their supporters to respect electoral laws and guidelines.
The Council of the Wise comprises prominent Nigerians from the six geopolitical zones and is focused on engaging stakeholders, promoting national unity and supporting democratic governance.
