By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja | Media Report
The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on governments at all levels, electoral authorities, and political actors to take urgent and concrete steps to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued in Abuja following a board meeting, the organisation warned that the country’s democratic future depends not only on elections but also on the credibility of the processes leading up to them, the transparency of institutions, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
CAPPA stressed that for the 2027 elections to be credible, they must be free, fair, and inclusive, conducted in an environment free from violence, voter suppression, and political intimidation.
The group urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to begin early preparations to guarantee transparency and ensure that every vote counts. It also called on the judiciary to resist any attempts to undermine the will of the people.
Highlighting the dangers of money politics, CAPPA warned that vote-buying and the capture of democratic institutions by powerful interests continue to erode public trust and weaken governance. It further urged political parties to uphold internal democracy, noting that poor internal processes often trigger conflicts that destabilise the broader electoral system.
The organisation also raised alarm over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, describing the persistence of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks as deeply troubling despite significant government spending on security.
According to CAPPA, the growing trend of ransom payments underscores the failure of the state to adequately protect citizens, leaving many Nigerians vulnerable to criminal elements.
It called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, advocating a people-centred approach that prioritises intelligence gathering, community engagement, and justice for victims.
On the economy, CAPPA expressed concern that recent policy measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy and increased revenue allocations to states, have yet to deliver meaningful relief to citizens.
The organisation noted that many Nigerians continue to face rising inflation, unemployment, food insecurity, and declining purchasing power.
It urged the government to ensure that economic reforms are implemented transparently and that their benefits are equitably distributed to reduce poverty and create jobs.
CAPPA also called for greater accountability in the management of public funds and increased investment in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and water infrastructure.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to working with civil society, communities, and the media to promote accountability, democratic participation, and good governance in Nigeria.
