**Election Season Brings Back Memories of Chaos in Nigeria** As the country begins to count down to the 2027 general elections, a disturbing trend is rearing its head - the return of electoral violence. This time, the scene was set in Ovade, Delta State, where a congress organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC) turned bloody. Eyewitnesses claim that the sudden sound of gunshots sent panic-stricken supporters running for cover, leaving behind a trail of shattered plastic chairs and debris. The incident brings to mind the dark days of Nigeria's electoral history when campaigns were often marred by violence, intimidation, and harassment. The memories of the 2019 elections, which saw widespread violence in some parts of the country, still linger in the minds of many Nigerians. The question on everyone's lips now is: can we afford to go down this road again? The APC congress, meant to be a peaceful gathering, turned into a battleground when supporters of rival factions clashed. The incident raises concerns about the safety of party members, supporters, and even innocent bystanders. It also highlights the need for party leaders to take responsibility for ensuring that their supporters behave peacefully. The 2027 elections promise to be a closely contested affair, with several political parties vying for power. As the campaigns intensify, it is crucial that party leaders and government agencies take proactive steps to prevent electoral violence. This includes ensuring that supporters are educated on the importance of peaceful conduct and that security agencies are deployed to maintain order. Nigerians have suffered enough from electoral violence; it's time for a change. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must work closely with security agencies to guarantee a violence-free election. It's also essential that party leaders and candidates promote a culture of peace and civility in their campaigns. Ultimately, the 2027 elections offer Nigerians a chance to rewrite their electoral history. We can choose to follow the path of violence and intimidation or take a bold step towards a more peaceful and democratic process. The choice is ours, but one thing is clear: the consequences of electoral violence will be dire for our democracy.