The Network of Civil Society Groups has announced plans to identify and publicly promote credible candidates across political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging Nigerians to prioritise individual competence and integrity over party affiliation.
The group said the initiative would provide voters with information about contestants whose records, leadership qualities and policy proposals demonstrate commitment to democratic values, inclusive representation and public accountability.
In a press statement signed on behalf of the network by Emmanuel Olowu Aiyedun, titled “2027: Supporting Persons, Not Parties; Advancing Democratic Pluralism, Inclusive Representation and Accountability,” the organisation said it aims to encourage issue-based electoral choices, political diversity and effective representation at the federal, state and local government levels.
"The initiative is necessary as Nigerians continue to grapple with economic difficulties, rising living costs and challenges in accessing affordable food, reliable electricity, quality healthcare, education and employment opportunities."
The organisation stated that citizens should evaluate political aspirants based on their personal records, integrity, competence, leadership experience, public conduct and proposed policies rather than their political parties.
It warned against blind political loyalty, noting that religious sentiments, ethnic affiliations, financial inducements and longstanding party attachment should not determine electoral decisions.
According to the statement, “While political parties remain important democratic institutions, party affiliation should not replace individual credibility, integrity, character, competence and a demonstrable record of public service.”
"We maintain that allowing candidates from different political parties and ideological backgrounds to participate in governance would strengthen democratic institutions, encourage constructive debates and promote checks and balances."
As part of its planned activities, the organisation said it would organise civic education programmes, public engagements and discussions to enable voters to examine candidates' backgrounds, policy proposals and commitments to public service.
It added that selected contestants from different political parties would be featured through candidate engagements, public interviews, policy discussions and media outreach to give Nigerians access to information about their leadership capacity and proposed contributions to governance.
The Network also called on political parties, aspirants, civil society organisations and the media to promote issue-based campaigns.
While urging Nigerians to reject vote-buying, ethnic divisions, religious manipulation and other forms of electoral inducement, it stressed the need for the 2027 elections to produce effective representation and accountable leadership responsive to citizens' needs.
2027: CSOs urge Nigerians to prioritise candidates over political parties