Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Arewa Consultative Forum, Pan Niger Delta Forum and Middle Belt Forum have called for greater scrutiny of the backgrounds and records of politicians seeking elective positions.

The groups said Nigerians had the right to know the educational history, integrity and track records of candidates before entrusting them with political power. The ACF said presidential aspirants should be prepared to account for their past and provide more than just certificates to prove their qualifications.

The ACF Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Baba, said candidates seeking the presidency should expect questions about their history, stressing that leadership required transparency and accountability. He added that Nigerians were ultimately more concerned about the impact of governance on areas such as healthcare, education, housing and household welfare.
PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, supported the call, saying aspirants should make their life journeys and records available to the people they intended to serve. He compared political leadership to a job application, where candidates were expected to present their experience and qualifications.

Similarly, MBF President, Dr Bitrus Pogu, said candidates should be judged by their achievements and track records rather than campaign promises. He urged all aspirants to subject themselves to proper scrutiny so voters could make informed decisions.

However, Afenifere General Secretary, Chief Ademola Folarin, cautioned that while examining candidates’ backgrounds was useful, moral judgments could be subjective. He maintained that legal requirements remained the ultimate standard for determining eligibility for public office.