The Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room has raised concerns over the growing weaponisation of ethnicity, religion and public office, warning that these could pose serious threats to the credibility of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The group made the call at a World Media Conference in Abuja to commemorate the International Day of Democracy.
As Nigeria prepares for another general election, civil society organisations are urging stakeholders to take deliberate steps to protect the country’s democratic process.
The Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room says ethnicity, religion and the weaponisation of public office remain critical threats that require urgent attention ahead of the 2027 polls.
The group says democracy is not a gift bestowed by political leaders, but a fundamental right of the people and a system of government that must be protected, strengthened and continuously renewed.
It warns that the 2027 general elections must not become another routine exercise in conducting elections without giving Nigerians a genuine democratic choice.
The Situation Room is demanding measurable improvements in the quality, credibility, transparency and inclusiveness of the electoral process.
It is also calling on political leaders, electoral institutions, security agencies, the judiciary, political parties and the media to make clear and measurable commitments towards protecting Nigeria’s democracy.
The group says such commitments are necessary to ensure that the 2027 elections reflect the will of the people and strengthen public confidence in the democratic process.
The United Nations International Day of Democracy, observed annually on September 15, is aimed at promoting and upholding democratic principles around the world, while reminding citizens that democracy is both a goal and a continuous process.
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(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
