The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Search for Common Ground (SCG) and Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) have urged Nigerians from all sectors to reject electoral violence and embrace peaceful, inclusive, and responsible democratic participation as the country prepares for the general elections in 2027.

The organisations noted that electoral violence continues to pose a serious threat to democratic consolidation, national unity, and sustainable development.

Speaking on behalf of the organisations at a joint news conference to commemorate Democracy Day 2026 on Thursday, IPCR’s Director-general, Dr Joseph Ochogwu, noted that Democracy Day serves as an important reminder of Nigeria’s democratic journey and the collective responsibility of citizens and institutions to protect and strengthen democratic values.

“Electoral violence remains one of the most significant challenges confronting democratic processes in many societies. Across election cycles, incidents of political intimidation, destruction of property, misinformation, hate speech, voter suppression, and physical attacks have undermined public confidence in elections and weakened citizens’ trust in democratic institutions. Such actions not only threaten lives and livelihoods but also discourage meaningful participation in governance.

“Elections should be opportunities for citizens to freely express their choices through peaceful and lawful means. Democratic competition should be based on ideas, policies, competence, and service to the people rather than intimidation, coercion, violence, or divisive rhetoric. A peaceful electoral environment is essential for ensuring credible elections, protecting citizens’ rights, and strengthening democratic accountability.

“Preventing electoral violence is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all stakeholders. Political leaders and candidates should demonstrate statesmanship by promoting issue-based campaigns and publicly discouraging violence among their supporters,” Ochogwu said.

He underscored the role government institutions, electoral bodies, security agencies, traditional leaders, religious leaders, women-led organisations, community-based groups, and civil society actors could play in preventing electoral violence, adding that strengthening collaboration among those stakeholders was essential for identifying early warning signs of conflict, promoting peaceful dialogue, and responding effectively to emerging tensions before they escalate into violence.

As Nigeria looks ahead to future electoral cycles, Ochogwu reaffirmed the commitment of IPCR, SCG and CCD to supporting initiatives that promote democratic governance, strengthen social cohesion, encourage citizen participation, and build sustainable peace across communities.

“Through partnerships, civic education, dialogue platforms, media engagement, and peacebuilding interventions, Search for Common Ground, IPCR, and CDD will continue working with stakeholders to foster an environment where democratic processes can thrive without fear or violence.”

In her contributions, the Director of Programmes, SCG, Gift Omoniwa, underscored the importance of collective action in safeguarding democracy.

“Democracy thrives when citizens can participate freely, safely, and peacefully. Electoral violence has no place in a democratic society. Together, we must choose dialogue over division, tolerance over hatred, and peace over violence,” she said.

According to her, every Nigerian has a role to play in protecting our democracy and ensuring that elections remain a platform for constructive engagement and national progress.