The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA, has urged the Nigerian government, electoral authorities, and political actors to take urgent steps to safeguard democracy, ensure credible polls, and address worsening insecurity and economic hardship ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued after its board meeting in Abuja, CAPPA signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Board Chairman and Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director, stressed that the credibility of the 2027 elections would depend on transparent processes, strong institutions, and the protection of citizens’ rights to participate freely without fear or intimidation
2027 Election must be free and fair
The organisation warned that Nigeria’s democratic future goes beyond periodic voting, insisting that the integrity of pre-election processes and institutional transparency are critical to restoring public trust.
CAPPA noted that the 2027 elections must be free, fair, inclusive, and conducted in a peaceful atmosphere devoid of violence, voter suppression, and politically motivated intimidation.
The group cautioned that Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle plagued by irregularities and declining public confidence, adding that all stakeholders must uphold the rule of law to guarantee credible outcomes.
Call for electoral transparency, institutional integrity
CAPPA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, security agencies, and the judiciary to begin early preparations to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the electoral process.
It also raised concerns over the growing influence of money in politics, warning that vote-buying and undue political influence undermine governance and erode public trust.
The organisation further charged political parties to strengthen internal democracy, noting that weak party structures and lack of due process often trigger conflicts that destabilise the broader electoral system.
Insecurity, economic hardship worsen concerns
The CAPPA board expressed deep concern over persistent insecurity across the country, despite significant budgetary allocations to the sector.
It lamented the continued prevalence of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks, as well as the increasing normalisation of ransom payments by citizens.
On the economy, the group said recent reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and increased allocations to subnational governments, have yet to provide relief for Nigerians facing inflation, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.
CAPPA called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security framework and a people-centred approach that prioritises intelligence, community engagement, and justice for victims.
It also urged greater accountability in public spending and investments in healthcare, education, and other critical social infrastructure to cushion the impact of economic reforms on vulnerable populations.
