Democracy Day: ANEEJ Urgently Calls for Electoral Reforms Before 2027, Warns Against Vote Rigging

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) has urged the Federal Government, state governments, local authorities, political parties, political actors, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies to implement urgent reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On Nigeria’s Democracy Day, ANEEJ’s Deputy Executive Director, Leo Atakpu, expressed serious concern about the ongoing decline in the credibility of the country’s electoral process and its impact on democratic governance, national development, and social stability.

Atakpu emphasized that June 12 remains a powerful symbol of Nigerians’ collective fight for credible elections, representative governance, and safeguarding the people’s sovereign will. While the date stands for resilience and the hope for free and fair elections, the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system still faces significant threats.

He pointed out that electoral violence, vote buying, election manipulation, voter intimidation, political thuggery, misuse of state institutions, and weak accountability mechanisms continue to undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.

Atakpu warned that any attempt by desperate politicians or compromised institutions to rig the 2027 elections will be strongly opposed by Nigerians, civil society, and all citizens committed to defending the country’s democracy.

“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by manipulation, intimidation, violence, and impunity. The votes of Nigerians must count and be seen to count,” he said.

He added that protecting electoral integrity is not just a political duty but an investment in the country’s stability, prosperity, and democratic future.

ANEEJ noted that beyond political consequences, electoral malpractice has real social costs. Lives are lost in election-related violence, families are displaced, children become orphans, and communities suffer from political instability.

The organization highlighted that the choices made today, as preparations for 2027 begin, will shape the quality of democracy that future generations inherit.

Atakpu also pointed out that public trust has eroded significantly due to electoral misconduct. He explained that when people believe their votes do not matter, voter turnout drops.

Data from ANEEJ showed a steady decline in voter turnout over the past twenty years—from 69.08 percent in the 2003 presidential election to 57.49 percent in 2007, 53.68 percent in 2011, 43.65 percent in 2015, 34.75 percent in 2019, and a historic low of 26.72 percent in 2023.

The organization warned that if this trend continues, it could threaten democratic stability, political legitimacy, and citizen participation in governance.

Referring to the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, Atakpu noted that public admiration for that election, more than three decades later, underscores the urgent need to rebuild trust, transparency, and confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

He expressed concern about recent political statements that appear to influence election outcomes before voting, noting that such remarks reinforce public beliefs that electoral malpractice remains deeply rooted.

ANEEJ called for INEC’s independence to be fully protected, emphasizing that the Commission must be well-funded, protected by law, and free from political influence.

It also urged INEC and security agencies to act with impartiality, professionalism, and strict adherence to the law before, during, and after the 2027 elections.

ANEEJ warned that security forces should not be used as tools for intimidation or political manipulation but should serve as protectors of voters, election officials, observers, and electoral materials.

Finally, the organization reaffirmed that free, fair, credible, and transparent elections are the foundation of a thriving democracy, and that accountability, integrity, and respect for the rule of law must guide Nigeria’s democratic path.

As Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle, ANEEJ’s message for 2027 remains clear: Nigerians deserve elections that are credible, fair, transparent, and peaceful.