The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has expressed concern over what it described as an alleged plan by certain political actors to use foreign media platforms to discredit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, the National Coordinator of the group, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the association had received information it considered credible, suggesting that some documentary-style productions and investigative reports were being prepared by international media organisations with the aim of damaging the reputation of the current administration.

He said the development, if true, could pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability as the country gradually moves toward another election cycle.

According to him, while investigative journalism remains an essential part of any democracy, there are concerns that it could be manipulated for political ends.

Onwubiko stressed that HURIWA was not opposed to accountability or scrutiny of public officials, noting that credible evidence of wrongdoing should always be transparently presented and lawfully investigated.

“Investigative reporting is a cornerstone of democracy. It strengthens institutions, exposes wrongdoing, and promotes accountability,” he said.

However, he warned that the association was worried about the possibility of what he described as the “weaponisation” of investigative journalism, especially where allegations might be presented without verifiable and substantiated evidence.

The group noted that in several democracies around the world, information spaces are often manipulated during election periods to shape public opinion and influence outcomes.

It cautioned that Nigeria must not become vulnerable to such tactics as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.

HURIWA said its intervention was not meant to shield any individual or institution from scrutiny but to protect the integrity of democratic discourse in the country.

“It is not about personalities. It is about institutions. It is not about partisanship. It is about principle,” Onwubiko stated.

He explained that the association’s position was based on the need to ensure that democratic engagement remains rooted in truth, transparency and responsibility, rather than what he described as “narrative warfare.”

The group called on international media organisations to maintain high standards of editorial independence and ensure that any documentary or investigative production concerning Nigeria is grounded in verified facts.

It also urged political actors across party lines to avoid covert influence operations that could damage Nigeria’s global image, while encouraging government institutions to remain transparent and open to lawful scrutiny.

HURIWA further appealed to Nigerians to critically evaluate sensational reports and narratives, especially as the 2027 elections approach.

The association pledged to continue monitoring developments and to speak out whenever it believes democratic integrity is under threat.