The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to publicly commit to delivering a free, fair, credible, transparent and violence-free general election in 2027, arguing that such a move would cement his place among Nigeria’s most respected democratic leaders.
The rights advocacy group said the President has a historic opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations by ensuring that future elections reflect the genuine will of the people rather than the influence of incumbency, political intimidation or electoral manipulation.
HURIWA’s position follows claims reportedly made by the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, who alleged that during a Ramadan fast-breaking gathering attended by opposition figures and President Tinubu, opposition leaders sought assurances that the 2027 elections would be conducted transparently and fairly.
According to Adebayo’s account, the President allegedly responded that he could not guarantee a free and fair election, contending that he himself faced political disadvantages and intimidation while in opposition and that contemporary opposition politicians should expect similar realities.
While noting that the allegation remains Adebayo’s version of events, HURIWA said the reported comments underscore the urgent need for a clear public commitment from the Presidency regarding the integrity of the next general election.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the association said Nigerians deserve firm assurances that democratic institutions will be protected and electoral processes strengthened ahead of the 2027 polls.
The group called on the Federal Government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other relevant institutions to take immediate measures to guarantee transparent elections, eliminate vote-buying, prosecute electoral offenders, curb political violence and safeguard the independence of electoral institutions.
HURIWA also urged authorities to ensure equal opportunities for all political parties and candidates while preventing intimidation, harassment and suppression of opposition voices.
According to the association, a genuinely credible electoral process would not only deepen public confidence in democracy but would also elevate President Tinubu’s standing both nationally and internationally.
The group argued that overseeing a transparent election would secure the President a distinguished place in Nigeria’s democratic history, similar to leaders who strengthened democratic institutions and prioritized national stability over partisan interests.
HURIWA further observed that former President Goodluck Jonathan continues to receive recognition within and outside Nigeria for respecting democratic principles and facilitating a peaceful transfer of power following the 2015 presidential election.
Meanwhile, the association announced plans to convene the 18th edition of its National Human Rights Lecture, which will focus on strengthening Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The lecture, themed “Achieving Free and Fair Elections in 2027,” is expected to examine practical pathways for improving electoral integrity, citizen participation, democratic accountability and institutional reforms.
Renowned public affairs analyst and scholar, Professor Okey Ikechukwu, will deliver the keynote lecture.
The event is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, and is expected to attract political leaders, civil society organisations, academics, diplomats, students, faith-based groups and electoral stakeholders from across the country.
HURIWA said the lecture forms part of broader efforts to stimulate national dialogue on democratic reforms and encourage collective action toward protecting the sanctity of the ballot.
The association reiterated that democracy can only flourish when elections are peaceful, transparent and conducted strictly in accordance with constitutional principles and the rule of law.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
