ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has called on political leaders and their supporters to embrace peaceful, issue-based campaigning ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Obi made the call in a statement posted on his verified X account after joining other presidential candidates to sign the first National Peace Accord for the 2027 Presidential Elections.
The former Anambra governor said signing the accord reinforced his commitment to ensuring that presidential candidates conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the office they aspire to occupy.
He urged political leaders to reject violent rhetoric and rein in supporters who engage in inflammatory or threatening behaviour.
“Those of us wishing to be addressed as ‘His Excellency’ must behave excellently, and, more importantly, the process of attaining public office must be excellent.”
Obi said the 2027 election should focus on issues that directly affect Nigerians, including national unity, insecurity, poverty, the growing number of out-of-school children, and the need to restore hope to the country’s citizens.
He also urged supporters of the various candidates to recognise their leaders’ commitment to free, fair, and credible elections based on issues and devoid of rancour.
Obi said he took seriously the commitment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, as well as the pledge by law enforcement agencies to remain unbiased throughout the electioneering process.
He called on his supporters to remain “firm, determined, and peaceful” as the country moves towards the 2027 elections.
Obi concluded his statement with his familiar political message: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
