Legal practitioner and leadership coach, Dr. Obiajulu Uja, has advised Nigerians to consider integrity, accountability, competence, empathy and community development when choosing political candidates.

Uja gave the advice while speaking on Beyond the Headlines on Beyond the headlines on Freedom Square TV, hosted by Uchenna Cyril Anioke Ph.D., ahead of the 2027 elections.

He identified integrity as the first quality voters should look for in a candidate.

According to him, a person of integrity should demonstrate consistency in words and actions, regardless of the circumstances.

He also listed public accountability as another important consideration, saying anyone seeking public office should be prepared to account for their assets and conduct before, during and after holding office.

Uja identified competence as the third quality, stressing that academic qualifications alone should not determine whether someone is capable of governing.

He said candidates must be able to combine knowledge with practical ability and deliver results.

The lawyer also urged voters to consider whether a candidate has empathy and compassion for ordinary citizens.

He said leaders should understand the challenges faced by the people they govern and demonstrate concern for their welfare.

The fifth quality, according to Uja, is a commitment to community development.

He argued that candidates who genuinely care about communities would be more likely to pursue policies and projects that improve the lives of citizens.

Uja therefore urged Nigerians to look beyond political party, ethnicity, religion and financial inducements when evaluating candidates for elective office.