The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on all tiers of government, electoral authorities, and political stakeholders to take decisive steps to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, ensure credible elections, and tackle the country’s deepening socio-economic and security challenges ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued in Abuja following a recent board meeting, the organisation warned that the future of Nigeria’s democracy depends not only on periodic elections but also on the integrity of pre-election processes, institutional transparency, and the protection of citizens’ rights to participate freely without fear or intimidation.
The release was signed by CAPPA Board Chairman, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, and Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi
CAPPA stressed that for the 2027 elections to be legitimate, they must be free, fair, inclusive, and conducted in a peaceful atmosphere devoid of violence, voter suppression, and politically motivated intimidation.
“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by irregularities, hate speech, and erosion of public trust,” the group stated, adding that the credibility of the elections would hinge on the commitment of government institutions and political actors to uphold the rule of law.
The organisation 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 charged the judiciary to resist any attempts to undermine the will of the electorate.
Raising concerns about the growing influence of money in politics, CAPPA warned that vote-buying and the capture of democratic institutions by vested interests continue to weaken governance and erode public confidence.
It further called on political parties to uphold internal democracy, noting that disregard for due process within party structures often fuels instability in the wider political environment.
The group described the pre-2027 period as a critical moment for Nigeria to reset its national priorities, urging leaders to demonstrate genuine commitment to democratic values, economic justice, and the protection of lives.
On security, the board expressed alarm over persistent violence across the country, despite substantial government spending in the sector. It decried the continued incidents of killings, kidnappings, and attacks, noting that many citizens are increasingly forced to negotiate ransom payments due to inadequate state protection.
CAPPA called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, advocating a people-centred approach anchored on intelligence gathering, community engagement, and justice for victims.
Addressing the economy, the organisation lamented that recent reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and increased allocations to sub- national governments, have yet to deliver tangible relief to ordinary Nigerians.
It noted that rising inflation, food insecurity, unemployment, and declining purchasing power continue to worsen living conditions.
While acknowledging the necessity of fiscal reforms, CAPPA insisted that such measures must not disproportionately burden vulnerable populations.
It urged the government to ensure transparent management of revenues and equitable distribution of resources to stimulate job creation and reduce poverty.
The board also called on federal and state governments to improve accountability in public spending, invest in essential social infrastructure such as healthcare, education, and water systems, and implement policies that cushion the impact of economic reforms on citizens.
Reaffirming its commitment, CAPPA pledged to continue working with civil society organisations, communities, and the media to promote accountability and enhance public participation in governance.
source: Nigeria News Mark
