Stakeholders and political actors have raised alarm over the state of Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 presidential and general elections, warning that the system is deteriorating and calling for urgent collective action to prevent further decline.
The concerns were expressed on Monday during a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) in Abuja, themed “Actualizing Credible 2027 Elections in Nigeria.” Participants at the event argued that Nigeria’s democratic process has been weakened by alleged manipulation of political party processes, declining voter participation, and growing distrust in public institutions.
The convener said the programme was aimed at strengthening electoral integrity and promoting peaceful and transparent elections ahead of 2027.
Speaking at the event, former presidential candidate Oby Ezekwesili said Nigeria’s democracy has significantly deteriorated since 1999, noting that public confidence in elections has sharply declined. She expressed concern over low voter turnout in 2023, which she said reflected widespread disillusionment among citizens.
She also raised alarm over alleged misuse of state power against dissenting voices, warning that intimidation and political interference could further weaken democratic freedoms. Ezekwesili stressed that credible elections depend on fairness, transparency, and trust in institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, and security agencies.
The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Adewole Adebayo, also called for stronger civic action, arguing that Nigerians must actively defend democracy as was done during the transition from military rule in 1999. He alleged interference in opposition party processes and warned that democratic competition was being undermined.
Similarly, representatives of other political figures including the Peoples Democratic Party candidate emphasized that credible elections are essential for legitimacy, accountability, and effective governance.
Former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore took a more radical stance, arguing that the electoral system itself has been compromised and urging citizens to intensify resistance against what he described as entrenched political dominance.
On his part, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi (represented at the event), called for urgent electoral reforms, warning that voter exclusion and weaknesses in the registration process threaten the credibility of future elections. He urged that resolutions from the meeting be formally presented to the National Assembly, INEC, and the presidency for action.
Energy policy expert Sam Amadi also contributed, arguing that political parties must play a more active role in challenging electoral procedures and engaging the electoral commission through formal processes. He further advocated for stronger political coalitions to improve competitiveness and strengthen opposition unity ahead of 2027.
Overall, speakers at the forum agreed that Nigeria’s democracy faces serious challenges, calling for institutional reforms, stronger civic engagement, and greater cooperation among political actors to safeguard the integrity of future elections.