By Sumaila Ogbaje
Search for Common Ground (SFCG), Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) have urged Nigerians to reject electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The call is in a statement issued by Mr Nelson Asoh, the Communications Coordinator, Search for Common Ground Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja.
Asoh stated that the call followed a joint news conference and podcast engagement organised under the theme “Say No to Electoral Violence.”
He stated that the organisations agreed that Democracy Day provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the cuntry’s democratic journey and recommit to strengthening democratic values and institutions.
He quoted the groups as noting that “while Nigeria has made significant progress since the return to democratic rule, electoral violence remains a major threat to democratic consolidation, national unity and sustainable development.
“Incidents of political intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, misinformation, voter suppression and physical attacks have continued to undermine public confidence in elections and weaken trust in democratic institutions.”
He said the organisations stressed that elections should provide citizens with the opportunity to freely express their choices through peaceful and lawful means.
He added that political leaders and candidates should promote issue-based campaigns and publicly discourage violence among their supporters, while encouraging political parties to strengthen mechanisms that promote peaceful conduct and accountability throughout the electoral process.
He said the groups highlighted the role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future, warning against attempts to use youths as instruments of political violence.
“The organisations called on young Nigerians to become ambassadors of peace, dialogue and civic responsibility through voter education, advocacy, community mobilisation and constructive engagement.
“They expressed concern over misuse of digital platforms and social media to spread misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and contents capable of inciting violence.
“They urged citizens to verify information before sharing it and rely on credible sources to promote informed democratic participation.
“The media must continue to uphold professional standards through accurate reporting, fact-checking, balanced coverage and conflict-sensitive journalism,” he stated.
Asoh also quoted the Director of Programmes at Search for Common Ground, Mr Gift Omoniwa, as saying “democracy thrives when citizens can participate freely, safely and peacefully. Electoral violence has no place in a democratic society.
“Together, we must choose dialogue over division, tolerance over hatred and peace over violence. Every Nigerian has a role to play in protecting our democracy and ensuring that elections remain a platform for constructive engagement and national progress.”
The organisations reaffirmed commitment to supporting initiatives that promote democratic governance, social cohesion, citizen participation and sustainable peace across the country.
They urged Nigerians to recommit themselves to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, civic responsibility and democratic participation as the nation prepares for future electoral cycles. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)