Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, has urged politicians across political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.

Mr Amupitan made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the signing of the first National Peace Accord for the 2027 general elections, facilitated by the National Peace Committee led by former head of state, Abdulsalami Abubakar.

“Focus on what and how. Tell the voters what you’ll do for the economy, security and education and how you intend to achieve it. Let the 2027 campaign be a marketplace of ideas, not a theatre of war,” he stated.

Mr Amupitan, who reminded politicians of the peace accord’s significance, urged them to preach peace to their supporters.

“Now a call to candidates and party leaders: The document you’re about to sign is not a mere piece of paper. It’s a covenant and a social contract with the Nigerian people, and it’s a contract with statutory and constitutional flavour,” the electoral body chief explained. “Lead by example. Your supporters look to you for cues. If you speak the language of peace, they’ll act with peace. If you incite them, they’ll ignite.”

The INEC chair warned candidates and parties to refrain from preemptively declaring results, urging them to avoid misinformation that could undermine confidence in public institutions.

He called for the respect of “the umpire and the law”, stating that constructive criticism is welcomed.

The call came as political parties and candidates prepare to kick off campaigns ahead of next year’s elections.