Parties Reject Calls to Halt 2027 Campaigns

Ranti Thomas 2 hours ago 2 min read

Political parties in Nigeria have opposed calls for a blanket suspension of campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections following the reported Ebola case, urging the Federal Government to prioritise preventive measures and issue clear public health guidelines.

The parties maintain that political activities can continue if organisers adopt appropriate safety measures to reduce the risk of infection during rallies and other large gatherings.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, had earlier said there was no immediate need to cancel political campaigns, conferences or other public gatherings following the reported case. He, however, noted that the government would review the situation if public health conditions changed.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid turning the health situation into a political controversy. The party’s National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said relevant health agencies had issued advisories and cautioned that politicising the outbreak could create unnecessary fear and confusion.

However, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) expressed concern that the government might use the outbreak as a reason to restrict opposition campaigns. Its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said any restrictions must be supported by transparent public health evidence.

The ADC argued that public health must remain the priority, while warning against measures that could unfairly limit political participation. The party said it would seek clarification if authorities advised political organisations to suspend their activities.

Similarly, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) opposed an outright suspension, maintaining that candidates needed opportunities to reach voters and present their manifestos. The party called for stronger disease surveillance and preventive measures rather than a blanket ban on campaigns.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress also advocated adjustments to campaign strategies, including measures to reduce physical contact and limit transmission risks. Its Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Olushile Akinyemi, said campaigns should continue under strict safety protocols rather than be halted abruptly.

Meanwhile, public health experts have warned that routine temperature screening at airports may not identify every infected traveller, particularly those who have not developed symptoms. They have called for stronger surveillance, contact tracing, public awareness and improved infection prevention in healthcare facilities.

With about 44 contacts reportedly identified for monitoring, experts have stressed the importance of following public health guidance and ensuring that suspected infections are promptly reported to the appropriate authorities.

The debate highlights the challenge of balancing public health precautions with political activities ahead of the 2027 elections, as parties call for clear, evidence-based guidelines that protect Nigerians while allowing campaigns to proceed safely.