2027: Abdulsalami panel warns Tinubu, Atiku, Obi, others against inflammatory campaigns

The National Peace Committee, led by ex-President General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and other politicians against inflammatory and provocative campaigns prior to the 2027 presidential election. The committee highlighted this in a statement jointly authored by Abubakar and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah.

They also expressed concern over 60 election-related incidents reported nationwide within a single month, encompassing political violence, coercion, threats, attacks on political activities and dissemination of false information. The committee pointed out: "To political parties, candidates, and supporters: Immediately cease dissemination of false, inflammatory or inciting communication.

Adhere to the commitments of the Accord, verify facts prior to publishing, and proactively deter supporters from participating in unlawful activities, intimidation, or disruption." The National Peace Committee reiterated its position: "As the 2027 electoral cycle unfolds, the message of the NPC remains resolute. Every candidate must be able to campaign peacefully; every political party must be able to function lawfully; and every citizen must be able to exercise their political choice without fear or coercion."

The committee directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to intensify supervision of political campaigns and ensure adherence to the Electoral Act 2026, as well as regulations governing political parties and campaign conduct. The committee emphasized that any detected violations should be addressed by INEC in accordance with its authority and that suspected criminal violations should be swiftly reported to the relevant law enforcement authorities.