2027: Let Your Conduct Speak For You, Obi Tells Politicians

The presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has urged politicians contesting elective positions in the 2027 general elections to allow their conduct and actions to speak for their suitability for public office rather than resorting to violence and destruction.

Obi made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the first signing of the National Peace Accord ahead of the 2027 general elections, where presidential candidates and political parties committed themselves to peaceful electioneering.

He said the signing of the accord should not be treated as a mere ceremonial exercise, but must reflect in the conduct of political actors throughout the campaign period and beyond.

“As contestants, we must allow what we are going to do today to reflect in our activities during and after the campaign,” Obi said.

The NDC candidate condemned the violence recorded during the recently concluded Osun State governorship election, lamenting the loss of innocent lives and destruction associated with the poll.

He stressed that no political ambition was worth the life of any Nigerian, insisting that elections must be won through persuasion, ideas and the support of voters, rather than violence or destruction of property.

Obi had, ahead of the Osun election, repeatedly warned political actors against violence and intimidation, urging them to allow the people to freely choose their leaders. Following the poll, he called for support and compensation for families of those who lost their lives, saying that “no political victory is worth Nigerian blood.”

He also urged politicians to respect the legitimate outcome of elections and pursue grievances through lawful and peaceful channels.
The former Anambra State governor’s comments came as major political actors formally recommitted themselves to peaceful conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections.

President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi and other presidential candidates are expected to sign the Peace Accord as political parties commence preparations for the 2027 campaigns.

The accord is aimed at promoting peaceful, issue-based campaigns and discouraging inflammatory rhetoric, violence, intimidation and other conduct capable of undermining the electoral process.

Obi’s warning also comes against the backdrop of growing concerns over electoral violence and the ability of political parties and their supporters to abide by commitments contained in previous peace accords.
The National Peace Committee had during the 2023 election cycle expressed concern over violations of the accord by political actors, including presidential candidates, party officials, spokespersons and supporters.

With the 2027 elections expected to produce another fiercely contested political battle, Obi urged the contestants to demonstrate through their conduct that they deserve the trust and responsibility associated with public office.