The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties has called on Nigerians to learn from the just-concluded election and resist intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections. CNPP, in a statement on Sunday, hailed Osun voters for exercising their constitutional rights despite the atmosphere of intimidation and violence.

“Osun state has once again reminded Nigerians that democracy belongs to the people and that the ballot remains one of the most powerful instruments available to citizens for determining who governs them.

“The resilience of the people of Osun state, who refused to be intimidated or driven away from the polling units by the atmosphere of violence and fear that preceded the election, deserves commendation. Those who seek to intimidate voters understand one fundamental weakness of democracy: when citizens refuse to participate, they create a vacuum that can be exploited by those who seek to manipulate the electoral process.

“Therefore, ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nigerians must emulate the courage demonstrated by Osun voters. Refusal to vote does not punish politicians; rather, it opens the door and clears the stage for those who may seek to rig elections or impose unpopular leadership,” the CNPP stated.

According to CNPP, the Osun election should not be viewed merely through the prism of which political party won or lost, but as an important demonstration of citizens’ power to determine electoral outcomes when they participate in sufficient numbers.

The coalition noted that the 2027 elections should focus on creating an electoral environment where every eligible Nigerian can freely cast a ballot without intimidation. It urged Nigerians not to allow political violence, threats, or deliberate attempts to discourage voter participation to determine the country’s future.

“Every Nigerian who stays away from the polling unit because of fear inadvertently creates an opportunity for someone else to determine the outcome of an election on his or her behalf,” CNPP explained. “The message from Osun is simple: do not surrender your democratic power. Come out peacefully, vote, protect your vote through lawful means and demand that your vote counts.”

While hailing the Independent National Electoral Commission’s neutrality in the election, the organisation urged the commission to improve, especially in result management, ahead of 2027.

“INEC must therefore ensure that results are uploaded promptly, transparently and consistently in accordance with its established procedures. Nigerians should not have to rely on social media speculation or unofficial result sheets when the electoral commission has an official results platform.

“The population involved in the 2027 elections will be considerably larger and the logistical demands will be much greater. INEC cannot afford to repeat avoidable technological failures on a larger scale,” the coalition said. “The judiciary must remain an impartial sanctuary for justice. We urge judicial officers to insulate themselves from political influence and ensure that electoral disputes are decided according to the Constitution, the Electoral Act, established judicial principles and the evidence before the courts.”