As Nigeria approaches the crucial 2027 general elections, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called upon all levels of government, electoral authorities, and political actors to implement decisive measures to protect the country’s democracy, ensure credible elections, and address the escalating socio-economic and security challenges affecting millions of Nigerians.
In a statement jointly signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CAPPA Advisory Board Chairman, and Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director, released over the weekend in Abuja following a board meeting, CAPPA emphasized that Nigeria’s democratic future hinges not just on regular elections, but also on the integrity of the processes leading to them, the transparency of institutions, and the safeguarding of citizens’ rights to participate freely and safely without the threat of violence.
The organization highlighted the necessity for the 2027 elections to be legitimate, advocating for them to be free, fair, inclusive, and conducted in an environment free from violence, voter suppression, and politically motivated intimidation.
“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle tainted by irregularities, hate speech, and diminished public trust,” CAPPA stated. “The credibility of the elections will rely on the commitment of all government levels, institutions, and political actors to uphold the rule of law.”
CAPPA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to initiate early preparations to ensure electoral transparency and that each vote is counted. They also called on the judiciary to remain steadfast against any efforts to undermine the will of the people.
The organization further pointed out the necessity of mitigating the influence of money in politics, warning that practices like vote-buying and the appropriation of democratic institutions by powerful entities erode public trust and compromise governance outcomes.
CAPPA called for political parties to prioritize internal democracy, stressing that a lack of due process within party structures breeds conflict and destabilizes the electoral landscape.
“As Nigeria gears up for its next general elections, this is a pivotal moment to realign national priorities,” CAPPA remarked. “The government and all stakeholders must demonstrate a sincere commitment to democratic ideals, economic justice, and the protection of human life. Anything less will risk exacerbating public disillusionment.”
Additionally, the board expressed serious concern regarding the worsening security situation nationwide, noting that despite substantial budgetary allocations for security, many Nigerians continue to face daily threats to their lives and livelihoods.
“It is profoundly disturbing that senseless killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks persist throughout various regions, despite substantial public resources dedicated to security,” CAPPA stated. “Even more alarming is the normalization of ransom payments, forcing Nigerians to negotiate with violent actors in the absence of effective state protection.”
The organisation called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture, and a people-centred approach that centres intelligence gathering, community engagement, and justice for victims.
On the economy, the CAPPA board lamented that recent policy measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy and increased allocations to subnational governments, have yet to translate into meaningful relief for ordinary Nigerians. Instead, many households continue to grapple with 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 CAPPA board urged the federal government and state authorities to demonstrate greater accountability in the use of public funds, invest in critical social infrastructure such as healthcare, education, and water systems, and implement policies that protect citizens from the harsh impacts of economic reforms.
The board reaffirmed CAPPA’s commitment to working with civil society, communities, and the media to promote accountability and public participation in governance processes.
