NHRC seeks peaceful, inclusive polity ahead of 2027 election

The Chief Executive of Nigeria's National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Professor Tony Ojukwu, has urged for a peaceful, inclusive, and rights-respecting society in the lead-up to the 2027 general election. Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, made the appeal on Wednesday as Nigeria commemorated the International Day of Democracy.

He emphasized that democracy is more than just elections; it's about the dignity, voice, and rights of every citizen. Ojukwu cautioned politicians, political parties, and their supporters to refrain from hate speech, ethnic profiling, threats, and other divisive rhetoric, stating that democracy thrives on respectful debate. He underscored the commission's commitment to monitoring hate speech and electoral violence, urging all eligible Nigerians to participate in the electoral process, vote responsibly, and not engage in voter apathy or vote-selling.

Ojukwu emphasized that democracy is at risk when citizens withdraw and stay silent. He called on the Federal Government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies to ensure a fair and secure electoral process, warning that anyone involved in violence, vote-buying, voter suppression, or attacks on democratic institutions would face swift legal action.