As the 2027 General Elections loom on the horizon, the specter of electoral malpractice and political inefficiency looms large over Nigeria’s democracy. Various stakeholders, ranging from opposition parties to civil society organizations (CSOs) and security agencies, gathered in Abuja for the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria. The conference, themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” saw the participation of luminaries such as Mr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President of Ghana, as the keynote speaker.
The communiqué presented by Dr. Otive Igbuzor, Mrs. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, and Ezenwa Nwagwu highlighted the pressing need to fortify Nigeria’s democratic foundations. Despite the country’s uninterrupted democratic governance for over 25 years, systemic issues such as electoral malpractice, weak governance, and corruption have eroded public trust in the electoral process. Concerns were also raised about the increasing threats to democracy in Africa, with eight coups between 2020 and 2023, and the disturbing finding that 30% of Nigerian youth believe military rule may be preferable.
The conference underscored the importance of reforms to address these challenges. Participants called for a revisit of the Uwais Report, which outlines comprehensive electoral reforms, as well as the entrenchment of local government democratic autonomy and police reforms. The decentralization of election management was also advocated to enhance efficiency and inclusivity in the electoral process.
### Judiciary and Legislative Reforms
The judiciary’s role in ensuring credible elections was emphasized, with calls for greater autonomy, improved judges’ welfare, and a focus on public interest over commercial interests. The legislature was urged to prioritize electoral reform proposals currently before the National Assembly, including reviewing the Electoral Act to eliminate the “winner-takes-all” system. The scrutiny of individuals appointed to sensitive positions in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was deemed crucial.
### Civil Society and Media Engagement
Inclusivity in the electoral process was a major focus, with the conference urging the inclusion of diaspora voting to allow Nigerians abroad to participate in national elections. Civil society organizations (CSOs) and the media were called upon to educate the public, hold duty-bearers accountable, and advocate for reducing the incumbent’s power in appointing individuals to sensitive positions. The role of CSOs and the media in engaging citizens was deemed essential to fostering a vibrant democratic culture.
Former governor of Sokoto State and current senator for Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, raised alarm about the unfolding plans to rig the 2027 elections. Tambuwal highlighted the need for civil society and the media to play a proactive role in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy. He called for a coalition akin to the one formed in 2015 to counter the alleged rigging plans. Tambuwal’s impassioned plea for the protection of democracy resonated with the audience, emphasizing the critical role civil society must play in upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
### Upholding Democracy and Accountability
Mr. Waziri Adio, founder of Agora Policy, cautioned against manipulating civil society organizations and the masses for power-grabbing purposes. He challenged stakeholders to offer substantive solutions for Nigeria’s development, going beyond mere political rhetoric. Adio stressed the importance of governance beyond elections, advocating for a participatory system that prioritizes the interests of the people. His call for a reinvigorated focus on local governance as a catalyst for national progress struck a chord with attendees, highlighting the need for holistic governance reforms.
In a swift rebuttal, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed allegations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat. The APC refuted Atiku’s claims, pointing to the history of electoral malpractice during his tenure with the PDP. The party questioned Atiku’s credibility in raising concerns about the current state of democracy, citing improvements in recent electoral processes compared to past eras. The APC also dismissed allegations of financial inducement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as baseless, calling for a focus on substantive policy discussions rather than unfounded accusations.
As Nigeria stands at a crossroads in its democratic journey, the clarion call for stakeholders to unite in safeguarding the electoral process and upholding the principles of democracy has never been more urgent. The challenges may be daunting, but the collective resolve to fortify Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensure free, fair, and credible elections remains unwavering. It is in this spirit of unity and purpose that Nigeria’s democracy will continue to evolve and thrive, guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, and civic engagement.
