• Urges govt to fortify democracy, end insecurity, deliver economic relief ahead of polls

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

CorporateAccountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has warned that Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle characterised by irregularities, hate-speech and loss of public trust, urging all tiers of government, electoral bodies and political actors to fortify democratic institutions, end insecurity and deliver economic relief ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a joint statement by CAPPA’s board chairman, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani and Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, the group stressed that the 2027 polls must be free, fair, inclusive and violence-free to earn legitimacy.

“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by irregularities, hate-speech and loss of public trust. The credibility of the elections will depend on the resolve of governments at all levels, institutions and political actors to uphold the rule of law,” the statement said.

CAPPA tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies on early preparations for transparency and vote integrity, urging the judiciary to resist subverting the people’s will and called for efforts to curb money politics like vote-buying, plus stronger internal democracy in parties.

The organisation highlighted pervasive insecurity despite hefty budgets. “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.

“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,” CAPPA noted.

It demanded a security architecture overhaul emphasising intelligence, community engagement and victim justice.

On the economy, CAPPA criticised fuel subsidy removal and higher subnational allocations for failing to ease inflation, food insecurity, unemployment and eroded purchasing power. “While fiscal reforms are often necessary, they must not come at the expense of the most vulnerable.

“As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, this is a critical moment to reset national priorities. 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,” it stated.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with civil society, communities and media for accountability.