By Abdullahi Alhassan
Kaduna, Nigeria, May 8, 2026(Series News Online)-The Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, has warned political and religious leaders against making statements that could incite violence ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying such remarks threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.
In a statement by its Chairman, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, TMG condemned remarks allegedly made by former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, concerning election outcomes in Gombe State and nationally. The group said the comments were inflammatory and irresponsible, given Pantami’s standing as both a religious and political figure.
“Remarks that imply resistance or confrontation if election results do not favour certain interests weaken public confidence in democratic institutions and risk encouraging political violence,” TMG said. It stressed that elections must be decided through transparent, lawful processes at the ballot, not through intimidation, manipulation, or coercion.
The group also lamented the deaths resulting from political violence and the desperation of some politicians to retain power, noting that such conduct deepens the suffering of Nigerians already grappling with insecurity, poverty, and unemployment. TMG further raised concern over the growing commercialisation of politics, where party primaries are increasingly shaped by money and self-interest rather than competence and service.
TMG called on public office holders to be accountable and transparent, and reminded religious leaders that their platforms should promote peace, unity, and tolerance rather than divisive rhetoric. “Religious leaders must lead by example in upholding peaceful coexistence and responsible civic engagement,” it stated.
The organisation urged political parties, candidates, security agencies, the judiciary, and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to remain neutral, fair, and committed to the rule of law throughout the electoral process. It also warned against hate speech, ethnic and religious division, political thuggery, and the misuse of state institutions for electoral gain.
Reaffirming its commitment to credible elections, TMG encouraged Nigerians to register, collect their Permanent Voter Cards, and participate peacefully in 2027. “The elections must reflect the true will of the people. Democracy advances only when leaders place national interest above personal ambition,” the group declared.
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politics