Before You Vote in 2027, Vet Your Candidates Like a King Warns Ogun Monarch

Why the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom is Calling for Candidate Scrutiny Ahead of 2027

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, traditional leaders are stepping into the public square to remind citizens of a timeless civic duty: the obligation to scrutinise candidates before casting a ballot. In a bold move that has resonated across Ogun State and beyond, His Royal Majesty, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has urged residents not to surrender their future to untested politicians. Speaking at a recent community gathering in Yewa North Local Government Area, the monarch cautioned against repeating the mistakes of past elections, where governance choices were made without adequate background checks on aspirants.

This call is not merely rhetorical. It is a clarion call for voter education and accountability in a political climate often marred by empty promises and unfulfilled pledges. The Eselu’s message underscores a fundamental truth: democracy thrives when citizens are not just voters, but vigilant participants in the process. For millions of Nigerians, especially young people and first-time voters, this advice comes at a critical time—when social media amplifies both information and misinformation, and when political narratives are often shaped more by sentiment than substance.

The monarch’s warning is timely. With the 2027 elections approaching, the stakes could not be higher. Nigeria faces pressing challenges—from insecurity and economic instability to failing infrastructure and weak institutions. In such a context, the choice of leaders must be deliberate, informed, and rooted in a clear understanding of who these individuals are, what they have done, and what they stand for.

What Does It Mean to Scrutinise Candidates? A Practical Guide for Voters

To scrutinise candidates is to go beyond campaign rallies, social media posts, and party slogans. It means digging deeper into a candidate’s history, character, and track record. It involves asking tough questions: What experience do they bring? Have they held public office before? What laws or policies have they supported or opposed? Are there allegations of corruption, misconduct, or poor judgment in their past? Do they have a history of community service or leadership?

This process should begin long before election day. It starts with research—visiting the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) website to verify a candidate’s registration and party affiliation, reading past speeches and interviews, and engaging with local leaders and civil society groups who may have insights into a candidate’s behaviour. It also means paying attention to local governance: who has been attending town hall meetings? Who has been responsive to community needs? Who has shown integrity in private or public life?

In many Nigerian communities, traditional rulers like the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom have served as custodians of truth and moral authority. Their role in public life transcends ceremonial duties; they are often seen as neutral voices who can challenge political opportunism. When such leaders call for scrutiny, it is a signal that the burden of good governance rests not only on institutions but on the citizens themselves.

The Danger of Business as Usual in 2027

Oba Akinyemi’s warning specifically targets the culture of “business as usual” that has characterised many Nigerian elections. Too often, voters are swayed by charisma, tribe, religion, or financial inducements rather than competence and integrity. The result? Leaders who ascend to power without a mandate of trustworthiness or capability. Once in office, such leaders may prioritise personal gain over public good, leaving citizens to bear the consequences of poor policies, embezzlement, or neglect.

This pattern is not unique to one state or party. Across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, similar stories abound: governors who abandon campaign promises, legislators who rarely visit their constituencies, and public officials who treat government resources as personal estates. The cycle of underperformance repeats because the electorate fails to break it—often due to apathy, misinformation, or the absence of credible alternatives.

But 2027 presents an opportunity to change this narrative. With new voter registration drives underway and a growing youth population demanding accountability, the conditions are ripe for a new kind of political engagement. The Eselu’s intervention is a reminder that leadership begins with the people’s choice—and that choice must be made with wisdom.

How to Scrutinise Candidates: A Step-by-Step Framework for Nigerians

Scrutinising candidates is not a task reserved for elites or journalists. Every Nigerian with a voter’s card can—and should—participate. Below is a practical framework to help voters conduct effective background checks:

1. Verify Their Identity and Eligibility

• Check INEC’s voter register: Ensure your name is on the register and that your polling unit is correct. Visit INEC’s official portal or use the INEC voter verification portal to confirm your status.
• Confirm candidate registration: INEC publishes the list of all contesting candidates by constituency. Cross-check that your preferred candidate is duly nominated by a registered political party.
• Review party manifestoes: While manifestoes are not always binding, they offer insight into a party’s priorities. Compare promises across parties to see which align with national needs.

2. Examine Their Public Record

• Past public service: If the candidate has held office (as a councillor, legislator, commissioner, or governor), review their performance. Did they deliver on key promises? Were there allegations of corruption or mismanagement?
• Legislative contributions: For legislative candidates, examine their bills, motions, and committee assignments. Have they sponsored laws that benefit the people? Have they spoken out on national issues?
• Media presence: Search reputable news outlets for interviews, op-eds, and reports on the candidate. Look for consistency in their message over time.

3. Investigate Their Integrity

• Corruption allegations: Check reports from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and local anti-graft bodies. Even rumours should prompt questions.
• Court cases: Search court records (where accessible) for ongoing or past litigation involving the candidate, especially in cases of financial misconduct or abuse of power.
• Community feedback: Talk to residents in the candidate’s constituency or former areas of influence. Ask about their responsiveness, fairness, and willingness to listen.

4. Assess Their Vision and Competence

• Policy proposals: Do they have a clear plan for education, healthcare, security, and job creation? Are their ideas realistic and evidence-based?
• Leadership style: Have they demonstrated teamwork, humility, and ethical behaviour in past roles? Leadership is not just about position—it’s about character.
• Track record of delivery: Have they implemented projects in their community? Have they followed through on commitments?

5. Engage in Public Discourse

• Attend town hall meetings: These are opportunities to meet candidates face-to-face and assess their knowledge and temperament.
• Join voter education forums: Civil society groups like Yiaga Africa, Enough is Enough (EiE), and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) regularly host events on voter awareness.
• Use social media wisely: Follow credible fact-checkers like Dubawa to verify viral claims. Avoid spreading unverified information.

Why Traditional Leaders Are Speaking Out: The Role of Monarchs in Modern Governance

In Nigeria’s complex political landscape, traditional institutions remain pillars of cultural and moral guidance. Monarchs like the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom are not just historical figures—they are voices of conscience in a system often dominated by money and power. Their interventions are rooted in a deep understanding of community values: honesty, respect, and service.

Traditional rulers have long played advisory roles in governance, especially in rural areas where formal institutions struggle to reach. They mediate conflicts, promote peace, and sometimes act as whistle-blowers when public officials falter. When a monarch like Oba Akinyemi speaks out against political unpreparedness, it carries weight not only because of his title, but because of the trust he commands among his people.

This role has grown in importance as Nigeria’s democracy matures. With increasing calls for restructuring and devolution of power, traditional institutions are being re-engaged as partners in local development. In states like Ogun, Ondo, and Rivers, monarchs have partnered with state governments to drive education, healthcare, and security initiatives. Their legitimacy stems from centuries of tradition, making their endorsement—or criticism—of political actors highly influential.

Yet, their involvement is not without controversy. Some critics argue that traditional leaders should remain apolitical, focusing only on cultural preservation. Others worry about the concentration of influence in unelected hands. The Eselu’s stance reflects a balanced view: monarchs should use their moral authority to encourage civic responsibility, not to endorse parties or candidates. Their duty is to elevate the conversation, not dictate it.

From Apathy to Action: How Young Nigerians Can Lead the Scrutiny Movement

Nigeria’s youth—those under 35 who make up over 60% of the population—hold the key to transforming the 2027 elections. For too long, young people have been labelled as politically apathetic, distracted by social media or disillusioned by broken promises. But a new wave of civic engagement is emerging, led by young professionals, students, and activists who understand that silence is complicity.

Organisations like the Not Too Young To Run movement, which successfully advocated for the lowering of the age limit for political office, are now focusing on voter education and candidate scrutiny. Online platforms such as “Track Nigeria” and “Vote Naija” provide tools for citizens to research candidates, track campaign promises, and report electoral misconduct. These initiatives are democratising political participation, making it easier for young people to scrutinise candidates without needing access to insider information.

Young Nigerians are also leveraging social media to demand accountability. Hashtags like #OgunDecides, #VoteWisely, and #Scrutinise2027 have gained traction, encouraging peer-to-peer learning and collective action. In cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, youth-led debates and candidate forums are becoming regular features, forcing politicians to engage beyond soundbites.

But this energy must translate into sustained action. Voting is only the first step. The real work begins after election day—holding leaders accountable through oversight, advocacy, and community organising. Young Nigerians must see themselves not just as voters, but as guardians of democracy’s future.

The Power of Collective Scrutiny

Scrutinising candidates is most effective when done collectively. Forming voter education groups in your ward, church, mosque, or community association can amplify your impact. Sharing research findings in group chats or local WhatsApp communities ensures that more people are informed. When a candidate’s past is exposed in one locality, it can influence voters in another—creating a ripple effect of accountability.

Civil society organisations are also stepping up. In the lead-up to 2027, groups like the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) and the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room are training volunteers to monitor campaigns, document promises, and track incumbents’ performance. These efforts are complemented by media organisations that are publishing candidate scorecards and comparative analyses.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Scrutinising Candidates

While the intention to scrutinise candidates is commendable, the process can be fraught with challenges. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Relying on Rumours or Fake News

In the age of viral social media posts, it’s easy to believe unverified claims about a candidate. A manipulated video, a misleading headline, or a fabricated quote can spread like wildfire. Always verify information through multiple credible sources before forming an opinion. Use fact-checking platforms like Dubawa or Africa Check to confirm claims.

2. Judging Candidates Based on Tribe or Religion

Nigeria’s diversity is its strength, but it is also exploited by politicians who use ethnic and religious sentiments to divide voters. Scrutinising candidates means looking beyond identity markers to assess competence, integrity, and vision. A candidate’s background should inform your decision, not define it.

3. Ignoring Independent Candidates and Smaller Parties

Much attention is often given to candidates from major parties like APC and PDP. However, independent candidates and smaller parties can offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Do not dismiss them without thorough research. In 2019, for instance, several independent candidates in state elections won due to grassroots support and clear policy proposals.

4. Focusing Only on Negative Information

While it’s important to know a candidate’s flaws, it’s equally important to recognise their strengths. A candidate with a strong track record in education reform may be weak on security, but that doesn’t disqualify them entirely. The goal is to make an informed choice, not to find a perfect candidate.

5. Waiting Until Election Day to Decide

Scrutiny cannot be done overnight. It requires time, patience, and consistent effort. Start your research early, attend debates, and engage with candidates in public forums. The more you know, the less likely you are to be swayed by last-minute propaganda or emotional appeals.

What Happens When We Fail to Scrutinise? The Cost of Poor Choices

The consequences of electing untested or unscrupulous leaders are far-reaching. They manifest in poor governance, economic stagnation, and social unrest. Consider the following scenarios that have played out across Nigeria:

1. Wasted Resources and Embezzlement

Several high-profile corruption cases in recent years have involved public officials who rose to power without proper scrutiny. Funds meant for roads, hospitals, and schools were diverted into private pockets, leaving communities worse off. The cost of such mismanagement is not just financial—it is developmental, measured in lost opportunities for generations.

2. Weak Institutions and Policy Failures

When leaders are chosen based on loyalty rather than competence, institutions suffer. Agencies like the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) have at times been headed by individuals with little technical expertise, leading to inefficiencies and scandals. Strong institutions require strong leaders—and scrutiny is the first step in building them.

3. Erosion of Public Trust

Every broken promise, every scandal, and every act of impunity chips away at citizens’ trust in government. When people feel that their votes do not matter, they disengage from the political process entirely. This disengagement creates a vacuum that is often filled by authoritarian tendencies or violent extremism. In states like Borno, Yobe, and Zamfara, the consequences of poor governance have been starkly visible in the rise of insurgency.

4. Missed Development Opportunities

Countries like Rwanda and Botswana have made significant progress by electing leaders who prioritise long-term development over short-term gains. In contrast, Nigeria’s inconsistent policy direction—shifting from one administration’s agenda to another—has hindered growth. Scrutinising candidates ensures that those who ascend to power are committed to continuity and progress.

How to Turn Scrutiny into Accountability After the Election

Scrutinising candidates does not end on election day. True accountability begins when leaders take office. Citizens must remain engaged by:

1. Monitoring Performance

Track the promises made during campaigns. Use scorecards published by civil society groups to evaluate whether leaders are delivering on their commitments. Platforms like BudgIT and Tracka provide tools for monitoring government projects and spending.

2. Demanding Transparency

Use the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to request information from government agencies. Attend public budget sessions and ask questions about how funds are allocated. Transparency is the bedrock of accountability.</p

3. Organising Peaceful Protests and Advocacy

When leaders fail to act, citizens have the right—and sometimes the duty—to speak out. Peaceful protests, petitions, and media campaigns can pressure governments to change course. The #EndSARS protests of 2020 demonstrated the power of collective action in holding leaders accountable.

4. Supporting Watchdog Groups

Civil society organisations play a crucial role in monitoring governance. Support their work through donations, volunteering, or amplifying their reports on social media. Groups like the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Human Rights Law Service (HURILAWS) rely on public support to challenge corruption and human rights abuses.

What the Future Holds: Building a Culture of Scrutiny in Nigerian Democracy

The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom’s call to scrutinise candidates is more than a plea—it is a blueprint for the future of Nigerian democracy. As the 2027 elections approach, the onus is on citizens to demand better from their leaders. This demand must be rooted in a culture of scrutiny that transcends election cycles and becomes a permanent feature of civic life.

Several trends suggest that this culture is already taking shape. The rise of data-driven journalism, the growth of fact-checking organisations, and the increasing use of technology in governance are all contributing to a more informed electorate. Social media, once a tool for misinformation, is now being used to expose corruption and mobilise citizens. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook have become battlegrounds for political education and debate.

Moreover, the younger generation’s demand for accountability is reshaping political narratives. Issues like youth unemployment, education reform, and climate change are no longer sidelined in political discourse. Candidates who ignore these concerns do so at their peril. In the 2023 elections, for instance, youth turnout increased in several states, signalling a shift in political engagement.

Yet, challenges remain. Voter intimidation, ballot snatching, and the monetisation of votes continue to undermine the integrity of elections. To counter these, citizens must remain vigilant and support electoral reforms. The introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in 2022 was a step forward, but its effectiveness depends on the collective will of voters to reject malpractice.

The Role of the Media in Promoting Scrutiny

The media has a critical role to play in promoting candidate scrutiny. Investigative journalism can uncover hidden truths about candidates, while balanced reporting ensures that voters are exposed to diverse perspectives. Media organisations must resist the temptation to sensationalise or politicise information. Instead, they should prioritise accuracy, depth, and public interest.

In Ogun State and beyond, local radio and television stations are increasingly hosting debates and interviews that allow candidates to explain their positions. Print media, too, is publishing in-depth profiles and comparative analyses. This trend must continue and expand to reach more communities.

Conclusion: Your Vote is Your Voice—Use It Wisely

The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom has spoken, but the message is not his alone. It belongs to every Nigerian who believes in the power of democracy. The 2027 elections are not just another political event—they are a chance to reset the trajectory of the nation. To do that, we must scrutinise candidates with the same rigour we apply to choosing a business partner, a spouse, or a mentor.

Democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires participation, vigilance, and courage. When you step into the polling booth in 2027, remember that your vote is not just a right—it is a responsibility. It is your chance to shape the future of your community, your state, and your country. Do not hand that power to anyone without first examining their hands.

As the Eselu has reminded us, the future is not for the unprepared. It is for those who dare to ask questions, seek truth, and demand better. Let 2027 be the year Nigeria finally breaks the cycle of poor leadership. Let it be the year you make a difference—not just with your vote, but with your scrutiny.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to scrutinise a political candidate?

To scrutinise a political candidate means to thoroughly investigate their background, track record, integrity, and policy proposals before deciding to support them. It involves verifying their eligibility, researching their past actions, and assessing their competence and character.

How can I find out if a candidate has a history of corruption?

You can check reports from anti-corruption agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). You can also search court records and reputable news outlets for any allegations or convictions. Civil society groups like SERAP often publish such information.

Is it wrong to vote based on tribe or religion?

While it is natural to feel a sense of belonging to a community, voting solely based on tribe or religion can lead to poor governance. Leaders should be chosen based on their ability to deliver good governance, not their ethnic or religious background. Scrutinising candidates means looking beyond identity to assess their vision and competence.

What should I do if I suspect a candidate is using fake news to campaign?

Do not share or amplify the information without verifying it. Use fact-checking platforms like Dubawa or Africa Check to confirm the claim. If the information is false, report it to the platform hosting it and consider informing civil society groups that monitor elections.

Can independent candidates win elections in Nigeria?

Yes, independent candidates have won elections in Nigeria, particularly at the state and local government levels. In 2019, for example, several independent candidates won seats in state assemblies due to grassroots support and clear policy proposals. However, they often face challenges in mobilising resources and gaining visibility.

Source

This article is informed by the call to action by His Royal Majesty, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, as reported by Daily Post Nigeria.

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