Jigawa civil society coalition urges peaceful conduct ahead of 2027 vote
A Jigawa civil society coalition has called on politicians, parties and supporters to reject hate speech and violence as preparations begin for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The group also urged electoral authorities, security agencies, religious leaders and the media to support credible and peaceful participation.
A civil society coalition in Jigawa State has urged politicians and their supporters not to allow personal ambitions to damage communities or Nigeria’s democratic future ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Civil Society Coalition on Peace, Security and Conflict Resolution made the appeal while marking the 2026 International Day of Democracy in Dutse, the state capital. Its chairman, Musbahu Basirka, said democracy should bring people together rather than deepen divisions.
Basirka said the appeal came as early campaigns and preparations for the elections were taking place in a tense political atmosphere marked by hate speech and personal attacks. He called on parties, candidates and supporters to avoid insults, intimidation and violence, and to focus campaigns on policies, ideas and citizens’ welfare. He also asked religious leaders to use their influence to promote tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence.
Government at all levels, he said, should protect citizens, act fairly and provide a safe environment for political participation, while security agencies should remain professional and impartial. The coalition called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to expand voter education, engage stakeholders and maintain transparency and neutrality. Basirka also urged traditional institutions to continue supporting dialogue and peaceful relations between communities.
He appealed to media organisations, radio stations, social media influencers and political commentators to avoid spreading unverified information and inflammatory content. Civil society organisations, youth and women’s groups, and citizens were similarly encouraged to reject violence and verify information before sharing it. Community activist Haruna Sulaiman said women were particularly affected by political violence and called for peace before, during and after the elections.
Youth activist Bashir Sunusi urged young people not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs, saying peaceful and credible elections were important to their future.
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