June 12: CHRICED demands electoral overhaul, rejects personality politics

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has issued a hard-hitting critique of Nigeria’s democratic process, warning that the country risks deepening political decay if urgent reforms are not undertaken ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group said political parties must stop what it described as “personality-driven, transactional and birthright politics,” insisting that Nigerians deserve clear policy choices rather than recycled slogans and elite bargaining.

In a statement issued by its Communications Office on behalf of its Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, CHRICED said the June 12 Democracy Day celebration should not be reduced to government ceremonies and political theatre.

It stressed that democracy must reflect the struggles of ordinary Nigerians who fought for justice, accountability and human rights, warning that symbolism without substance amounts to mockery of democratic sacrifices.

“As we mark June 12, democracy must mean more than speeches and ceremonies,” the statement read. “It must translate into policies that uplift the poor, protect the vulnerable, secure communities and restore dignity to citizens.”

The group also demanded urgent reforms from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), calling for a full overhaul of voter registration systems, resolution of technical failures, and improved access for underserved communities ahead of 2027.

It further urged the judiciary to accelerate electoral dispute resolution, insisting that delayed justice in election matters weakens public trust and undermines democracy itself.

CHRICED did not spare elected officials, accusing them of governing for a privileged minority while neglecting inflation, unemployment, insecurity and failing public services.

The organisation called on political parties to present coherent policy frameworks, arguing that Nigerians must be given real choices at the ballot rather than personality contests.

It also advocated continuous civic engagement beyond election periods, insisting that democracy must extend to budget oversight, public hearings and community accountability mechanisms.

The group maintained that June 12 remains a reminder of unfinished democratic business in Nigeria, warning that without reforms, the system risks further erosion of public confidence.