ISSJHR Faults 2027 Peace Accord, Says Constitution Should Be Enough And Respected
By Imoh Essien (Uyo)
The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights, ISSJHR, has faulted the signing of the 2027 Presidential Candidates Peace Accord, describing it as evidence of the weakness of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
In a press statement signed by its Chancellor, Dr. Omenazu Jackson and made available to newsmen on Thursday, the group said while it welcomes efforts to prevent electoral violence, it questioned the need for political candidates to sign a separate peace agreement to obey the law.
The National Peace Accord was signed in Abuja on August 18, 2026 by presidential candidates and political parties. It commits signatories to peaceful, issue-based campaigns and respect for electoral institutions.
CONSTITUTION MUST BE SUPREME:
ISSJHR argued that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is the supreme law and already binds all persons and authorities.
“Peaceful political participation is not a favour candidates grant to Nigerians through a signed document. It is an obligation imposed by law,” the statement read.
The group stated that no peace accord, agreement, or private undertaking can create a parallel legal order above the Constitution, the Electoral Act, or the courts.
WE SUFFER FROM WEAK ENFORCEMENT, NOT LACK OF LAWS:
According to ISSJHR, Nigeria does not lack electoral laws but suffers from weak enforcement, selective compliance, and poor accountability.
It noted that the Electoral Act already regulates campaign conduct, political violence, and electoral offences. The group therefore asked: “If the Constitution and Electoral Act are sufficient, why has Nigeria repeatedly needed candidates to sign additional peace agreements before every major election?”
ACCORD WITHOUT SANCTIONS IS THEATRICS:
The human rights group warned that an accord without legal consequences risks becoming “political theatre.”
It asked what would happen to a candidate who violates the accord, noting that only institutions empowered by the Constitution such as INEC and the courts can impose sanctions, disqualify candidates, or invalidate elections.
CRISIS OF POLITICAL MORALITY:
ISSJHR also expressed concern over what it called a crisis of political morality and the ideological emptiness of political parties.
“A presidential candidate should not need a bishop or peace committee to be reminded that human life is sacred and elections are not warfare,” it said.
The group lamented that campaigns have shifted from issues and manifestoes to personality attacks, ethnic mobilisation and religious manipulation.
DEMANDS FOR 2027:
ISSJHR called on all presidential candidates to publish a measurable national development contract covering the economy, security, jobs, education, healthcare, electoral reform, and anti-corruption.
It urged INEC to remain independent, security agencies to be neutral, and for electoral offences to be prosecuted promptly.
“The Constitution is Nigeria's ultimate peace accord. Peace must be established in the hearts of citizens and guaranteed by the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law,” Dr. Jackson stated.
He added that Nigerians are tired of rituals and want justice, credible elections, accountable leadership, and institutions that protect their votes and livelihoods.
