2027: Prof Jega Advocates Political Tolerance, Patriotism

Former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, has advised politicians and all Nigerians to abide by political tolerance and true democratic values, and prioritize national interest over personal sentiment during and after campaigns for the 2027 general elections.

Prof. Jega made the remarks while presenting a paper titled; “Challenges of Nation Building in the 21st Century” at the second international conference organised by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Federal University Dutse (FUD), in Jigawa State yesterday.

He noted that the peace, unity and survival of the country as a single democratic entity were more important than the ephemeral leadership tenure that any politician can attain.

He said any action capable of creating instability must be avoided in political campaigns.

“As electioneering campaigns gear up for the 2027 general elections, we must advocate to political actors to eschew desperation and embrace issue-based campaigns. They should also understand that true democratic purposeful leadership is anchored on integrity, competence and a clear vision for national development, not on parochial sentiment.

“Politicians and the general public must abandon the ‘do-or-die’ approach and commit to democratic ideals. Elections should not be a battleground, but a process for choosing leaders of character and proven capacity,” Jega stated.

Jega, who was represented by Dr. Basiru Musa Makarfi, warned against prioritising parochial sentiments and using inciting language as a dangerous trend that can jeopardise the peace, unity, and corporate existence of Nigeria. He maintained that everyone must avoid it

He charged Nigerians not to allow anyone to mislead them with propaganda but should be resolute and think wisely to elect credible candidates with proven integrity, accountability, and a demonstrable commitment to public service.

“Leadership is a trust, and those entrusted with it must prioritise the welfare of the people,” he said.

Jega emphasised that good governance thrives where leaders possess honesty, transparency, respect for the rule of law, and the ability to unite diverse interests for collective progress.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of FUD, Ahmad Muhammed Gumel, represented by the University Librarian, Ahmed Mohammed, commended the keynote speaker and other resource persons for their thought-provoking contributions.

The conference drew participants from academia, traditional institutions, the security sector, and civil society, who examined key impediments to nation-building, including corruption, weak institutions, poor governance, insecurity, and the negative impact of globalisation.