HEDA URGES POLITICAL STAKEHOLDERS TO UPHOLD JUNE 12 LEGACY
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By: Muftau Fatimo
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda has urged political parties, aspirants, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to ensure that preparations for the 2027 general elections are anchored on the democratic ideals symbolised by the June 12 struggle.
The civil society organisation stated that the sacrifices of pro-democracy advocates and millions of Nigerians in the quest for democratic governance should not be undermined by electoral malpractice capable of weakening public trust in the democratic process.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA emphasised the need for political actors to promote credible electoral participation, national cohesion and respect for the people’s mandate as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the next general elections.
According to the organisation, issue-based campaigns should take precedence over divisive politics, with greater attention given to matters affecting the welfare of Nigerians, including economic recovery, security, education, healthcare, anti-corruption reforms, youth development, environmental sustainability and institutional accountability
The essence of democracy is to provide citizens with informed choices based on ideas, competence, and vision, not fear, coercion, or financial inducement.
“The 2027 elections should reflect the highest standards of electoral integrity and serve as another milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” Suraju said.
HEDA strongly condemned vote buying and vote selling, describing the monetisation of elections as a major threat to democratic governance and accountability.
The organisation warned that the practice weakens democratic institutions, compromises governance and encourages corruption by creating incentives for elected officials to recover campaign expenditures through illicit means.
It also expressed concern over recurring incidents of political violence witnessed during previous election cycles and urged political actors to reject inflammatory rhetoric, the recruitment of thugs and all forms of voter intimidation.
The group called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, religious leaders and the media to intensify voter education efforts and strengthen mechanisms for preventing electoral offences.
HEDA further urged stakeholders to work towards creating a level playing field for all contestants while ensuring that elections are conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner.
“As the nation reflects on the significance of June 12, Nigerians must collectively insist that the 2027 elections are conducted in an atmosphere free from violence, manipulation, and corruption.
“Democracy flourishes when political campaigns are driven by ideas and elections truly reflect the will of the people,” Suraju added.
The organisation also reaffirmed its commitment to advancing electoral integrity, transparency, accountability and active citizen engagement, stressing that peaceful, credible and issue-based elections are vital to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and achieving sustainable development.
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