The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for transparent, inclusive and peaceful elections in 2027, urging that the process be free from manipulation, intimidation and abuse of state institutions.

The National Chairman of the party, Senator David Mark, made the call during a visit by a delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI) and its secretariat to the party in Abuja.

Mark said the ADC would do everything within its powers to support an electoral process that meets globally accepted democratic standards.

“We are interested in free, fair and credible elections, and we will do whatever we can to ensure that the process meets international standards,” he said.

The ADC chairman said the party was not seeking any special favour from electoral authorities or other stakeholders, but was demanding a level playing field and an electoral process that reflects the genuine choice of the people.

In his written speech, Mark expressed concern over what he described as the abuse of the electoral process by governments in power and, increasingly, by non-state actors.

He particularly condemned the violence and intimidation reportedly witnessed during the recently concluded Osun State governorship election, where no fewer than 30 people were said to have lost their lives.

“Elections should not be treated as war or a do-or-die affair,” he said, stressing that elections should give citizens the opportunity to freely choose their leaders and pursue their aspirations for development and an improved quality of life.

Mark also called for legitimate electoral mandates to be respected, while reiterating the need for free, fair, transparent and credible elections.

The ADC appreciated the IRI for the engagement and expressed its readiness to continue working with the institute and other stakeholders to strengthen democracy in Nigeria.