Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has raised the alarm that the current nature of campaigns by political parties and candidates across the federation calls for serious concern.

While noting that the period has been dominated by a proliferation of electoral disinformation, misinformation and weaponisation of fake news, the organisation stated that the trend poses biggest threat to the 2023 general elections.

CDD Director, Idayat Hassan, in a statement, yesterday, said fake news and disinformation have the potential to further fragment the country and skew electoral outcomes.

According to her, the development could play a part in affecting the legitimacy of the polls and products.

She said: “While campaigns are still at an early stage, CDD joins other stakeholders in calling for issues-based discussions during this period.

“With an estimated 95 million registered voters deciding 1,491 electoral contests, including a term-limited president, it is important for governance issues affecting citizens to be at the forefront of political debate.

“CDD urges political parties, candidates and their supporters to focus on the issues affecting the country’s governance and development.”

Hassan insisted that politicians must consider Nigeria first, far and above their personal aspirations.

She pointed out that the spread and impact of disinformation are threat to sustainability of democracy globally.

The CDD pointed out that the participation of all 18 registered political parties in the signing of the national peace accord shows a commitment by politicians to play by the rule.