By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has urged political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to uphold democratic values ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. In a statement issued on Sunday, HEDA Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, called for peaceful, transparent and issue-based campaigns across the country. He warned against vote buying, political violence and electoral manipulation, stressing that credible elections remain vital to Nigeria’s democratic growth.
HEDA Calls for Issue-Based Campaigns
HEDA said political actors should focus on policies that improve the lives of Nigerians instead of promoting divisive politics.
According to the organisation, campaigns should prioritise economic recovery, security, education, healthcare, anti-corruption reforms, youth development, environmental sustainability and institutional accountability.
Suraju noted that democracy succeeds when voters make informed choices based on competence, vision and ideas rather than intimidation or financial inducement.
Organisation Condemns Vote Buying and Electoral Corruption
The organisation strongly condemned vote buying and vote selling, describing both practices as major threats to democratic governance.
HEDA warned that the monetisation of elections weakens democratic institutions and encourages corruption. It explained that politicians who spend heavily to secure office often seek illegal means to recover campaign expenses.
The group added that such practices reduce public confidence in the electoral process and undermine accountability.
Concern Over Political Violence
HEDA also expressed concern about recurring political violence during previous elections.
It urged political parties and their supporters to reject inflammatory rhetoric, political thuggery and every form of voter intimidation.
According to the organisation, peaceful campaigns will strengthen public trust and improve the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
Stakeholders Asked to Strengthen Electoral Integrity
The organisation called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, religious leaders and the media to intensify voter education.
It also urged stakeholders to strengthen measures that prevent electoral offences while creating a level playing field for all contestants.
HEDA stressed that transparent elections require cooperation among all institutions responsible for safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
June 12 Sacrifices Must Be Protected
Suraju said Nigerians should honour the sacrifices of June 12 pro-democracy activists by protecting the country’s democratic values.
“As the nation reflects on the significance of June 12, Nigerians must collectively insist that the 2027 elections are conducted in an atmosphere free from violence, manipulation and corruption,” he said.
He added that democracy thrives when campaigns focus on ideas and elections reflect the genuine will of the people.
HEDA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting electoral integrity, transparency, accountability and active citizen participation.
The organisation maintained that peaceful, credible and issue-driven elections remain essential for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation and sustainable development.
“The 2027 elections should reflect the highest standards of electoral integrity and serve as another milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” Suraju added.
