An elder statesman, Chief Hycienth Ngwu, has advised politicians and their supporters to engage in issue-based campaigns as the campaigns for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
Ngwu made the call on Tuesday in Enugu, after the Independent National Election Commission (INEC) officially declared campaign activities for the presidential and National Assembly elections open on August 19, 2026.
He urged political gladiators and their supporters to maintain peace, civility and mutual respect throughout the electioneering period.
According to him, political actors should avoid inflammatory statements capable of creating tension, but should instead peacefully and convincingly present their programmes and engage voters constructively.
Ngwu warned against resorting to abusive languages, personal attacks and character assassination during campaigns.
The elder statesman also appealed to supporters of political parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could provoke violence or disrupt the peaceful conduct of campaigns.
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He noted that political differences should not be allowed to divide communities, families and friends.
“People have the right to hold different political views, opinions and beliefs; while a candidate has the right to canvass for votes within the provisions of the law,” he said.
Ngwu urged the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria to proactively regulate activities of some state agents that could undermine the advertising freedom of political parties through legislations and executive orders.
He urged security agencies, INEC and relevant stakeholders to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates throughout the campaign period.
“Security agencies must remain impartial and professional, while political parties and their supporters must cooperate with them to ensure that campaigns are conducted peacefully,” he said.
The elder statesman urged candidates to focus their campaigns on issues affecting the people, including economic, employment, infrastructure, education, healthcare and security based issues among others.
“Nigerians deserve campaigns that offer practical solutions to their challenges, and campaigns devoid of insults, propaganda, intimidation or hate speech.
“The media and political commentators should promote responsible political communication by giving prominence to policies, programmes and issues that will enable voters to make informed decisions.
“Political parties should do well in educating their supporters on the need to respect opposing views and uphold democratic values before, during and after the elections.
“The success of the electoral process depended largely on the conduct of political parties, candidates, supporters, security agencies, the media, the electorate and INEC,” he said.
