2027 Polls: Group Questions Credibility Of Peace Accord

As preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections, the Centre for Transparency and Advocacy has raised concerns over the credibility and effectiveness of the National Peace Accord, calling for urgent reforms to strengthen its impact on Nigeria’s electoral process.

The group warned that without enforceable provisions, the peace accord risks becoming a mere ceremonial exercise, failing to address recurring issues of electoral violence, impunity, and voter apathy that have continued to undermine public confidence in the country’s democratic process.

The National Peace Accord process, led by former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, has, over the years, served as a platform for political parties and candidates to commit to peaceful conduct before, during, and after elections.

However, concerns have persisted among stakeholders that the voluntary nature of the agreement, coupled with the absence of legal consequences for violations, has limited its effectiveness in ensuring compliance among political actors.

Executive Director of the organisation, Faith Nwadishi, made the call in an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP in Abuja yesterday, stressing the need to make the accord legally binding to ensure accountability and deter misconduct during elections.

According to her, the lack of sanctions for violations has weakened the agreement’s relevance over the years, allowing political stakeholders to disregard its provisions without consequences.

She noted that while the intention behind the peace accord remains commendable, its impact would remain minimal unless backed by enforceable legal frameworks that compel all signatories to adhere.

Her remarks come amid renewed efforts by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, who recently urged the media to support the commission in rebuilding public trust ahead of the elections.

Nwadishi argued that restoring confidence in the electoral system would require a holistic approach that goes beyond INEC, incorporating the judiciary and security agencies as critical components of the electoral value chain.

She maintained that the role of these institutions is crucial in shaping public perception of election credibility, stressing that their conduct before, during, and after polls often determines the level of trust citizens place in the outcome.

She noted that the actions and inaction of these institutions have significantly contributed to the growing trust deficit among Nigerians.

“The conduct of some security personnel during elections, which does not align with the Electoral Act, has continued to fuel voter apathy and weaken public confidence in the system,” she said.

She further emphasised the need for closer collaboration between INEC and the judiciary to ensure that judicial interpretations of electoral matters reflect the true will of the electorate.

“INEC must engage the judiciary as a key stakeholder in the electoral process. Judicial pronouncements should not, in any way, undermine the mandate of the people,” Nwadishi added.