HURIWA alleges plot to use int’l media to undermine 2027 elections

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns over what it described as a looming threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

It is alleged that certain political actors may be planning to deploy international media platforms to undermine the administration of President Bola Tinubu

Addressing journalists on Monday in Abuja, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, said the organisation had received what it termed credible information suggesting that documentary-style productions and special investigative reports were being prepared to damage the reputation of the current government.

According to Onwubiko, the alleged media efforts are expected to target not only the President but also key members of the Federal Executive Council in what he described as a “coordinated reputational offensive.”

He stressed that the association was not opposed to investigative journalism, describing it as a fundamental pillar of democracy that strengthens institutions, exposes wrongdoing, and promotes accountability.

However, he warned against what he called the “weaponisation” of investigative reporting for partisan purposes, particularly where allegations are presented without verifiable and substantiated evidence.

Read also: Keble projects N10bn in sales after near shutdown

“There is a growing global pattern during election cycles where information spaces are deliberately manipulated to shape public perception.

“Democracies around the world have witnessed how media narratives can be strategically deployed not merely to inform, but to influence electoral outcomes”, Onwubiko said.

He cautioned that Nigeria must not become vulnerable to such tactics as the 2027 elections approach, adding that HURIWA’s intervention was aimed at safeguarding democratic discourse rather than shielding any individual from scrutiny.

The group maintained that where credible evidence of wrongdoing exists, it should be transparently presented and lawfully investigated, noting that no public office holder should be above accountability.

At the same time, it warned that democracy must not be reduced to what it called “a theatre for campaigns of calumny driven by partisan calculations.”

HURIWA called on international media organisations to uphold the highest standards of editorial independence and evidentiary rigour.

It also urged them to ensure that any documentary or investigative production concerning Nigeria is grounded in verifiable facts and not influenced by political sponsorship.

It also appealed to political actors across party lines to refrain from covert influence operations capable of damaging Nigeria’s global reputation, while urging government institutions to remain transparent and open to lawful scrutiny.

The association further advised Nigerian citizens to critically evaluate sensational narratives, especially as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 polls.

“This is not about personalities; it is about institutions. It is not about partisanship; it is about principle.

“Democracy thrives on truth, transparency and responsibility. It weakens when narrative warfare replaces honest engagement”, Onwubiko said.

HURIWA said it would continue to monitor developments and pledged to speak out wherever it perceives threats to democratic integrity, regardless of the source.