Elections
By Salisu Sani-Idris
Abuja, Aug. 26, 2026 Savannah Centre for Diplomacy Democracy and Development (SCDDD) has urged former President Olusegun Obasanjo to counsel Nigerians and politicians against violence before, during, and after the 2027 general elections.
The Chairman of SCDDD Council of the Wise, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola (rtd), made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday by Amb. Sani Salauwa-Bala, Executive Director and Secretary of the centre.
Ariwoola also emphasised the need for Obasanjo to continue the strenuous efforts in deepening democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
According to him, the council is pleased to note the successful conduct of the Osun State election.
“This urge for peaceful elections in 2027 prompted the Council of the Wise, led by its Chairman, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, to visit former President Olusegun Obasanjo to seek his support in promoting peaceful general elections in 2027.
“I went on memory lane and reminded Obasanjo about previous electoral processes that were characterised by thuggery, electoral frauds, disruption of process, hate speech, rigging, vote buying, and fake ballot papers.
“In many sad cases, these occasioned death as happened in 2011,” he said.
The chairman said in recognition of Obasanjo’s distinguished role in the nation, beginning from 1979 through his presidency in 1999-2007 and after, he earned himself as a Peace-Loving Global Citizen.
“The Council of the Wise therefore urged him to continue his noble work of guiding Nigerians, especially the political class, to ensure that the 2027 general elections were devoid of violence before, during and after the elections.
“And most importantly to continue the strenuous efforts in deepening democracy and good governance in Nigeria.”
He also implored Nigerians to turn out en masse and vote to prove the prophets of doom and detractors wrong during the 2027 elections.
He also enjoined Nigerians to improve upon and consolidate the democratic successes so far achieved.
“Everyone must avoid hate speech, incendiary rhetoric and falsehoods in all engagements.
“Nigerians expect the campaign to focus on issues and problems confronting Nigerians in their daily lives,” he said.
SSI/FAK
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Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
(NAN)(NAN)
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