TDThe Igbo Agenda Dialogue (IAD) has congratulated the presidential candidates of various political parties participating in the 2027 presidential election and urged them to conduct issue-based campaigns that promote national unity, peace, and democratic values.
In a press release issued on June 1, 2026, and jointly signed by the group’s Convener and National Chairman, Chief Chekwas Okorie, and Executive Secretary, Jonathan Elendu, the organization commended the candidates for identifying key areas requiring urgent attention to foster Nigeria’s development, security, and unity.
The group noted that the forthcoming presidential election is expected to witness vigorous political campaigns and described the contest as one that promises to be an epic political encounter.
According to the IAD, politicians and their supporters must remain focused on issues affecting Nigerians and avoid inflammatory statements, hate speech, and divisive rhetoric that could heighten tensions in the country.
The organization also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the conduct of credible, transparent, free, and fair elections, stressing that Nigerians and the international community would be closely monitoring the electoral process.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission has the onerous task of delivering credible, transparent, free, and fair elections to Nigerians. Nigerians expect nothing less. The world is watching,” the statement said.
The IAD further urged security agencies to remain professional and impartial throughout the electoral period, warning against any actions that could worsen existing tensions across the country.
The group observed that Nigeria is currently grappling with several security and socio-economic challenges that have left many citizens frustrated and restless.
It cautioned that politicians, electoral officials, and security agencies must avoid actions and utterances capable of aggravating what it described as an already volatile political atmosphere.
Highlighting its civic engagement efforts, the organization disclosed that it has commenced a nationwide advocacy campaign aimed at encouraging eligible Nigerians, particularly those yet to register, to take advantage of the ongoing final phase of INEC’s Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
The group also urged registered voters to participate actively in the electoral process by turning out in large numbers during the elections scheduled for January and February 2027.
According to the IAD, democratic participation remains one of the most effective ways citizens can influence governance and shape the future of the country.
The organization called on other civil society groups, community organizations, and pro-democracy movements to join the voter mobilization campaign to ensure greater participation in the electoral process.
In its concluding remarks, the IAD issued a stern warning against any attempt to manipulate election results or undermine the will of the electorate.
The group cautioned that electoral malpractice before, during, or after the elections could trigger widespread unrest and threaten national stability.
“Any attempt to manipulate the electoral process or shortchange the electorate during and after the elections may result in uncontrollable anarchy that could threaten the very foundation of our country,” the statement warned.
The Igbo Agenda Dialogue described itself as a non-partisan socio-political and pro-democracy organization committed to promoting democratic values, national cohesion, and active citizen participation in governance.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the group emphasized the need for all stakeholders to uphold democratic principles and ensure that the electoral process reflects the genuine will of the Nigerian people.
