By Nkechi Eze
Nigeria’s leading election observation coalition, Transition Monitoring Group, has condemned alleged comments credited to former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, describing them as capable of inciting unrest ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In an official signed statement by the Chairman of TMG, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the group expressed concern over remarks allegedly made by Pantami concerning electoral outcomes in Gombe State and across the country, warning that such comments could undermine democratic stability and public confidence in the electoral process.
TMG described the alleged statements as inflammatory and irresponsible, stressing that any form of rhetoric capable of encouraging violence, intimidation, or political unrest poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
The organisation maintained that democratic governance can only thrive through peaceful participation, credible elections, and respect for the will of the electorate rather than threats, coercion, or acts of desperation by political actors.
According to the group, elections must be determined through transparent and lawful processes at the ballot box, not through violence, manipulation, or attempts to intimidate voters and institutions.
TMG also condemned the loss of lives linked to political violence, party primaries, and what it described as the excessive desperation among politicians to gain or retain power at all costs.
The group noted that Nigerians are already grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and poverty, warning that politicians and other influential figures should avoid actions or comments capable of worsening national tensions.
It further lamented the growing monetisation of politics and party primaries in Nigeria, saying political contests are increasingly being driven by financial influence, manipulation, and selfish interests instead of competence, integrity, and service delivery.
TMG stressed that public office holders must remain transparent and accountable to the people, describing accountability as a critical pillar of democratic governance.
The organisation also urged religious leaders to use their influence to promote peace, unity, tolerance, and national cohesion rather than inflaming political or religious divisions.
According to the statement, religious platforms should never be used to spread divisive rhetoric or encourage actions capable of destabilising the democratic process.
TMG called on political parties, candidates, security agencies, the judiciary, and the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain neutral, uphold fairness, and protect the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 polls.
The group further warned against hate speech, political thuggery, ethnic and religious division, electoral violence, and the misuse of state institutions for political advantage.
Reaffirming its commitment to electoral integrity, TMG encouraged Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process by registering to vote, collecting their Permanent Voter Cards, and engaging peacefully during the elections.
The organisation pledged to continue monitoring the political climate and pre-election activities across the country while reporting actions capable of undermining credible and peaceful democratic participation.
