By JKNewsMedia
CONCERNS OVER Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections have prompted Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) to call on all tiers of government, electoral authorities, and political actors to take concrete steps to ensure credible polls and address worsening socio economic and security challenges.
A press statement signed by Executive Director Akinbode Oluwafemi and Board Chairman Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, issued after a board meeting in Abuja, stated that Nigeria’s democratic future depends not only on periodic elections but on the integrity of pre-election processes, institutional transparency, and protection of citizens’ rights to participate freely without fear or violence.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the board stressed that the 2027 elections must be free, fair, inclusive, and conducted without violence, voter suppression, or politically motivated intimidation to command legitimacy.
“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by irregularities, hate speech, and loss of public trust,” the organisation stated.
“The credibility of the elections will depend on the resolve of government at all levels, institutions, and political actors to uphold the rule of law,” it also added.
CAPPA also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to begin early preparations to guarantee transparency and ensure every vote counts, while also calling on the judiciary to resist attempts to subvert the will of the people.
It highlighted the need to curb the influence of money in politics, warning that vote buying and the capture of democratic institutions by powerful interests undermine public trust and weaken governance outcomes.
It also called on political parties to uphold internal democracy, noting that the absence of due process within party structures fuels conflict and destabilises the broader electoral environment.
“As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, this is a critical moment to reset national priorities,” the organisation stated.
“The government and all stakeholders must show genuine commitment to democratic principles, economic justice, and the protection of human life. Anything less risks deepening public disillusionment.”
The board expressed concern over the state of security, stating that despite consistently high budgetary allocations, many Nigerians continue to face threats to their lives and livelihoods.
“It is deeply troubling that senseless killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks persist across various parts of the country, despite the enormous public resources committed annually to security,” it stated. “Even more alarming is that ransom payments have become routine, with Nigerians forced to negotiate with violent actors in the absence of effective state protection.”
The organisation called for a comprehensive review of the country’s security architecture and a people centred approach focused on intelligence gathering, community engagement, and justice for victims.
On the economy, the board stated that recent policy measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy and increased allocations to subnational governments, have yet to deliver meaningful relief for ordinary Nigerians, as households continue to face rising inflation, food insecurity, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.
“While fiscal reforms are often necessary, they must not come at the expense of the most vulnerable,” it stated.
“The expected gains from subsidy removal and increased revenues must be transparently managed and equitably distributed to create jobs and reduce poverty.”
The board urged federal and state authorities to demonstrate greater accountability in the use of public funds, invest in healthcare, education, and water systems, and implement policies to protect citizens from the effects of economic reforms.
It reaffirmed its commitment to working with civil society, communities, and the media to promote accountability and public participation in governance processes.
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