The Democracy and Good Governance Watch Initiative (DGGWI), a coalition of civil society organisations, has expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging eligible voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and politicians to refrain from inflammatory campaign statements.
The coalition also called on the Federal Government and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to conduct a thorough investigation into the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, which reportedly claimed the lives of 25 personnel.
The group made its position known in a press statement issued on Sunday, October 11, 2026, following an emergency meeting on the state of the nation held over the weekend.
DGGWI commended INEC for launching its 100-day countdown to the 2027 general elections, describing the initiative and the commission’s regular engagement with Nigerians as indications of its commitment to conducting free, fair, transparent and credible polls.
The coalition said its confidence in the electoral body remained firm, citing what it described as INEC’s performance since the 2015 general elections and its conduct of off-cycle elections following the assumption of office of its chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, in 2025.
According to the statement, the commission should sustain its commitment to neutrality, professionalism and the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities throughout the electoral process.
DGGWI also urged INEC to remain focused and determined despite what it characterised as attempts by electoral losers and their supporters to undermine the commission through allegations and campaigns of disinformation.
The group, however, stressed the importance of maintaining public confidence in the electoral process as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections.
DGGWI seeks thorough probe into Air Force crash
On the reported Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, the coalition expressed condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government, the Nigerian Air Force and the families of the deceased personnel.
The group described the incident of October 5, 2026, as a painful national tragedy, stating that the reported loss of 25 personnel, comprising crew members and passengers, had left the country mourning.
It prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and strength for their immediate and extended families to bear what it described as an irreparable loss.
The coalition called on the Federal Government and the NSIB to ensure that a comprehensive and professional investigation established the immediate and underlying causes of the crash.
It said the findings should help determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and inform measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Coalition condemns inflammatory political statements
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, DGGWI condemned what it described as reckless, provocative and uncivil language by some political actors.
The coalition said it was concerned that some politicians continued to make statements capable of offending public sensibilities despite the signing of a peace accord by political parties under the auspices of the National Peace Committee.
It described such conduct as irresponsible and inconsistent with the standards expected of political leaders in a democratic society.
The group called on the National Peace Committee and security agencies to intervene and ensure that political actors conducted themselves responsibly.
It also urged INEC to enforce the relevant provisions of the law against electoral misconduct and other violations within its statutory powers.
According to the coalition, political campaigns should focus on issues, policies and credible alternatives rather than abusive language, provocation and statements capable of heightening political tensions.
Voters urged to collect PVCs ahead of elections
DGGWI also appealed to Nigerians who were yet to collect their PVCs to take advantage of the collection arrangements announced by INEC.
The coalition said possession of the voter card remained essential for eligible citizens to participate in the elections and choose their preferred candidates and political parties.
It encouraged prospective voters to act early rather than wait until the final stages of preparations for the polls.
The group further urged the electorate to scrutinise campaign promises carefully, warning against being swayed by attractive slogans and proposals it said might not be realistic or sustainable.
It advised voters to assess political parties and candidates based on the practicality of their promises, their potential long-term benefits and their implications for the country’s collective interest.
The coalition cautioned Nigerians against exchanging their votes for immediate or temporary benefits at the expense of more enduring public interests.
DGGWI pledges election monitoring
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic accountability, the coalition said it would diligently and professionally observe and monitor the electoral process.
It pledged to provide independent perspectives on developments, educate and inform the public, and help clarify issues arising throughout the election period.
The organisation also called on all stakeholders in Nigeria’s democratic system to abide by the rules and contribute to a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process.
The statement was signed electronically by 13 members of the coalition: Nelson Ekujumi, Gbenga Soloki, Popoola Ajayi, Peter Oparah, Shola Justice Omolola, Wole Adepoju, Uche Nnadozie, Musa Ibrahim, Gbenga Omage, Kehinde Onaolapo Ogun, Leonard Obasi, Alesta Wilcox and Murphy Abadoni.
The coalition concluded by wishing Nigeria well as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.