2027: NAGA urges voters to scrutinise Tinubu, Obi, Atiku policies

The Nigerian Advocacy for Good Governance Alliance (NAGA-Diaspora) has called on Nigerian voters to scrutinize the policy positions, records, and consistency of the presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a statement, the group urged voters to delve into candidates’ stances on economic policies, especially those related to petrol subsidies and foreign exchange rates.

NAGA-Diaspora highlighted that the removal of petrol subsidies and the devaluation of the naira have significantly contributed to the current cost-of-living issues faced by Nigerians. According to the group, both President Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi have at various points supported measures associated with these economic actions, while Atiku Abubakar has advocated for a different approach, including a targeted subsidy to alleviate pressure on households.

The organization emphasized the need for voters to seek clarification from candidates on how their economic policies would tackle inflation, household expenses, production, and fiscal stability. NAGA-Diaspora cautioned against candidates changing their campaign positions without providing clear explanations, urging voters to scrutinize the candidates' records and the evolution of their policies.

The group warned against assuming a change in language equates to a change in record, urging voters to ascertain whether proposed policy shifts represent genuine alternatives or mere shifts in campaign messaging. NAGA-Diaspora called upon civil society groups, youth organizations, professional bodies, and registered voters to demand detailed answers from candidates regarding their past positions and proposed alternatives.

The organization posed three key questions for voters to ponder: who has backed the policies currently contributing to economic pressures; who has presented a documented alternative, including on subsidies; and will these proposed alternatives still be in place after the election? NAGA-Diaspora stressed that the 2027 election should focus on policy, accountability, and workable economic programs rather than on personalities or campaign rhetoric.

The group urged voters to evaluate candidates based on their historical records and positions, particularly those having significant implications for the economy and living standards. NAGA-Diaspora pledged its continued commitment to fostering good governance, accountability, and purposeful leadership, while advocating for an issues-based electoral campaign leading up to the 2027 polls.