2027 Elections: Tinubu, Atiku, Obi, Others Sign Peace Accord

Leading presidential aspirants for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, have signed a peace accord committing to issue-based campaigns and non-violent political conduct.

The accord, facilitated by the National Peace Committee (NPC), was signed in Abuja on Tuesday, with representatives of major political parties, electoral officials, and civil society groups in attendance. The initiative aims to promote civility, respect, and national unity ahead of the 2027 polls.

Chairman of the NPC, former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), said the agreement was designed to prevent hate speech, misinformation, and violence that often accompany election seasons. He urged candidates to focus on policies and solutions rather than personal attacks.

“Our democracy thrives when campaigns are about ideas, not insults. This accord is a reminder that leadership is about service, not division,” Abdulsalami stated.

The event also featured remarks from Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, a member of the committee, who emphasised the moral responsibility of political leaders to uphold peace. “Nigerians are watching. The tone of your campaigns will shape the nation’s mood. Let us choose peace over provocation,” he said.

Representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to ensure credible elections. INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu commended the peace initiative, noting that issue-based campaigns would help voters make informed choices.

He added, “We urge all political actors to respect the rules of engagement. INEC will continue to provide a level playing field for all candidates.”

President Tinubu, who signed on behalf of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), described the accord as a vital step toward consolidating Nigeria’s democracy. He called on political parties to prioritise national interest above partisan gains.

“Politics must unite, not divide. We must campaign on ideas that move Nigeria forward—on jobs, security, and prosperity,” Tinubu said.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) echoed similar sentiments, stressing that peaceful elections are essential for Nigeria’s stability. “We must show maturity and respect for democratic values. The world is watching how Nigeria conducts its elections,” he noted.

Labour Party’s Peter Obi urged Nigerians to hold leaders accountable for their promises, saying issue-based campaigns would help voters focus on competence and integrity. “This accord is not just a document—it is a commitment to the people. We must campaign with facts, not propaganda,” Obi said.

Civil society organisations present at the event praised the initiative but called for consistent monitoring to ensure compliance. They urged the media to play a constructive role by promoting balanced coverage and discouraging inflammatory rhetoric.

Political analysts say the peace accord reflects growing awareness among Nigeria’s political elite about the need for responsible campaigning. They note that previous elections were marred by tension and misinformation, often leading to violence in some regions.

The NPC confirmed that similar accords would be signed at state and local levels to reinforce the message of peace nationwide. The committee also plans to establish a monitoring mechanism to track adherence to the agreement throughout the campaign period.

As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, the peace accord stands as a symbolic and practical step toward ensuring that political competition strengthens democracy rather than undermines it.

For millions of Nigerians, the hope is that this commitment will translate into campaigns focused on real issues—security, economy, education, and governance—rather than divisive rhetoric.