President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other presidential candidates have signed a National Peace Accord ahead of the 2027 general elections, committing political actors to peaceful and issue-based campaigns.
The accord was signed in Abuja as political campaigns for the 2027 presidential election formally commenced. The ceremony brought together several presidential candidates and political stakeholders.
Among those who signed were President Tinubu, Peter Obi and other presidential contenders. However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) were notably absent from the signing ceremony.
The agreement is intended to encourage political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns peacefully, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and respect the democratic process.
In his remarks, Tinubu urged political actors to place national unity above ethnic and religious sentiments during the election campaign. He said political disagreements and competing ideas were natural in a democracy but should not threaten the unity and stability of the country.
The President also stressed the importance of issue-based campaigns, urging candidates to focus on presenting their plans and ideas for the development of Nigeria rather than engaging in actions that could divide citizens.
The signing of the accord comes as political parties begin preparations for what is expected to be a closely contested presidential election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also urged political parties and candidates to respect electoral regulations and ensure that the campaign period does not degenerate into violence or intimidation.
The 2027 election is expected to feature several prominent political figures, including Tinubu, Obi and other presidential contenders seeking to convince voters across the country.
The peace agreement is therefore seen as an important step towards encouraging peaceful political competition as campaigns begin.
Political observers will be watching closely to see whether the commitments contained in the accord are respected throughout the campaign period and on election day.
The development also places greater responsibility on political parties, candidates and their supporters to promote tolerance and allow Nigerians to make their choices freely.
With the 2027 election campaign now underway, attention is expected to shift toward party mobilisation, policy proposals and grassroots engagement as candidates begin seeking support from voters across the country.
