By Ibrahim Abdulmalik
The Organisation of Muslim Unity (OMU), Nigeria, has called on political parties to make the 2027 election campaigns a contest of ideas, policies and development programmes rather than personality attacks and divisive rhetoric.
The organisation made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its 84th National Executive Council meeting held in Osogbo, Osun State, on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
OMU said the lifting of the ban on political campaigns should provide an opportunity for political parties and candidates to engage Nigerians on practical solutions to the country’s economic and social challenges.
It urged parties to focus their campaigns on credible economic development plans and programmes capable of improving the welfare of citizens.
The organisation also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the conduct of the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, urging the commission to build on the experience as it prepares for the January 2027 general elections.
OMU stressed the importance of sustaining public confidence in the electoral process through credible, transparent and efficient election administration.
The organisation also commended the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for enforcing the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks.
However, it urged the agency to intensify its efforts against fake and substandard products allegedly circulating in Nigerian markets.
OMU called for stronger enforcement and monitoring mechanisms to protect consumers, particularly vulnerable Nigerians who may unknowingly purchase dangerous or substandard products.
On reforms and economic hardship, the organisation commended the Federal Government’s economic reform measures but expressed concern over the hardship being experienced by Nigerians.
It urged the government to intensify measures aimed at cushioning the impact of fuel subsidy removal and other economic adjustments on ordinary citizens.
According to the organisation, reforms should be accompanied by practical measures capable of protecting vulnerable Nigerians and improving their standard of living.
OMU further called on religious leaders to protect the tradition of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
It urged Muslim and Christian leaders to deploy their influence towards promoting mutual respect, dialogue and national unity, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
The organisation stressed that religious leaders have an important responsibility to discourage inflammatory statements and actions capable of creating tension between communities.
The organisation also commended the achievements recorded under the immediate past Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), urging his successor to consolidate and improve upon the progress.
OMU further recommended that the Federal Government recognise the former registrar’s contributions to the development of the nation’s admission system.
The organisation said continuity in public-sector reforms was essential, noting that useful institutional innovations should be preserved and strengthened irrespective of changes in leadership.
The communiqué ultimately presented a broad appeal for responsible politics, economic sensitivity, religious tolerance, consumer protection and continuity in public-sector reforms as Nigeria approaches another critical electoral cycle.
