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The National Orientation Agency, NOA, Kwara State, has launched a state-wide sensitisation and awareness creation campaign across to promote peaceful electioneering in the build-up to the 2027 general election, with a strong emphasis on “election without bitterness.”
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Ilorin, Kwara State, the NOA State Director, Alhaji Dare Abdulganiyu, said the campaign was designed to foster tolerance, unity and responsible civic behaviour before, during and after the elections, stressing that early sensitisation remains critical to preventing electoral violence.
Alhaji Abdulganiyu explained that the initiative aligns with NOA’s mandate of promoting national cohesion and democratic values, noting that Nigerians must reject hate speech, political intolerance and other divisive tendencies capable of undermining the electoral process.
He added that the campaign was also aimed at addressing voter apathy by encouraging eligible citizens to actively participate in the electoral process, pointing out that low turnout in previous elections remains a major concern for stakeholders.
According to the NOA State Director, the agency is collaborating with community leaders, youth groups, market associations, religious bodies and security agencies to ensure that the message of peaceful elections reaches the grassroots across the State.
In an address, the Kwara State Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Gabriel Longpet, commended NOA for the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Dr Longpet noted that credible elections can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, urging political actors and supporters to shun violence and avoid being used as instruments of disruption during the electoral process.
He further emphasised the need for citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate responsibly, stressing that elections should not be seen as a “do-or-die affair” but as a civic duty that determines the nation’s future.
The REC reiterated that INEC remains committed to conducting free, fair and transparent elections in 2027, adding that collaboration with agencies like NOA is vital in educating voters and building public confidence in the electoral system.
Stakeholders at the event, including representatives of security agencies, political parties, civil society organisations and religious groups, pledged their support for the campaign, agreeing that sustained civic education and collective responsibility are key to achieving peaceful and credible elections in 2027.
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