Akpabio urges restraint as Nigeria’s 2027 election campaigns begin

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged politicians and candidates preparing for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections to reject violence, intimidation and divisive campaigning. He made the appeal on Tuesday as the Senate resumed plenary. Akpabio said political actors should conduct their campaigns with restraint and allow Nigerians to freely choose their leaders.

He urged candidates to present their policies and visions vigorously without turning communities against one another or exploiting religious, regional or other divisions. He said campaigns had already begun, with political parties selecting candidates and citizens preparing to assess competing programmes. According to Akpabio, candidates should engage in robust debate while recognising that the country would remain united after the election.

He warned that electoral success should not come at the cost of lives or national cohesion. Akpabio said politicians could disagree without setting communities, faiths or regions against one another, and called for campaigns marked by honour, conviction and responsibility. The Senate President also asked lawmakers to set an example during the political season.

He said the chamber contained members from different parties, regions and political viewpoints, but all represented one republic and had a duty to conduct proceedings with dignity. Akpabio acknowledged that lawmakers would continue to disagree on policy and political issues, but said such disagreements should not distract them from their legislative mandate. He told senators that the people had sent them to serve until the end of their mandate.

He therefore urged lawmakers to remain at their posts and continue their responsibilities despite the approaching elections. His comments placed the emphasis on peaceful competition, continued legislative work and protection of Nigeria’s unity during the 2027 election season.